As he reported 24 Channels, Culture and Information Policy Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko mentioned this in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine. He noted that Telegram constitutes a non-public community, but that all mass media under the Media Law are open, their owners are known and they are obliged to report their activities.

Telegram is a topic that requires a real expert discussion. Also, there is no feedback on Telegram. Whatever it is on Facebook or Google, it’s there and at least we know who to turn to. Who to contact on Telegram is not an easy question,
– said Tkachenko.

The minister also expressed concern about the app’s role in disseminating information in the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine, where the app can quickly spread news and propaganda. Tkachenko noted that the messenger contained a large amount of Russian activity.

How does the Ministry of Culture look at Telegram regulation?

The minister suggested that regulation is more likely rather than banning the messenger altogether. He noted that Telegram channels collect money, it is not clear whether they pay taxes. He also expressed concerns about transparency, ownership and community engagement.

He acknowledged, however, that the issue of regulation is still under discussion. He criticized Telegram representatives for ignoring dialogue with the ministry.

They don’t need it as they are completely outside the regulation zone. They are not interested, they exist in their own bubble. We use this opportunity to invite them to dialogue.
added.

What about the collaboration between Telegram and FSB?

Answering a question about the link between Telegram and Russian special services, Tkachenko said, “It is quite difficult to be sure that there are traces of the FSB or anyone else. However, the lack of any connection with Telegram raises a lot of doubts.”

The issue of regulating Telegram in Ukraine is expected to continue to be discussed, as the ministry seeks expert opinion on how to interact with the messenger.

Telegram ban in Brazil

The Brazilian Ministry of Justice blocked Telegram’s work in the country the previous day. This comes after the platform refused to respond to requests for data on the directors and members of the neo-Nazi group as part of an investigation into the school attack and mass murder.

Authorities ordered to block the messenger and sent a corresponding request to the companies Google and Apple, as well as operators Vivo, Claro, Tim, Oi. The court also increased the fine for Telegram to $200,000 for each day’s delay in providing data.