Russian-Chinese Messaging App Molniya Launches in Russia
Development of the app began in 2024.
A joint Russian-Chinese messaging app called Molniya (Lightning) was unveiled in Moscow. The platform brings together chats, video calls, channels, and short-form videos. One of its key distinguishing features is its integration with the Signal protocol, which provides end-to-end encryption for private and group messages. The app is already available for download from the RuStore app store.
Development of Molniya began in 2024, according to the project team. In 2025, the concept was expanded into a unified digital ecosystem.
“We see Molniya as a space
that can connect users and create new ways for Russia and China to interact
digitally,” said Yu Xinyu, the project’s Chinese co-founder and president of
Passion Group.
The developers stress that the launch is just the beginning. The platform will continue to evolve, with new features and integrations planned.
