A political faction calling itself the Communists of Russia has asked the Russian Ministry of Culture to block Instagram for Russian artists. The move follows long-standing government concerns about Meta, the parent company of Instagram, which is banned in Russia and labeled extremist by some authorities. This development was reported by DEA News, citing a statement from party chairman Sergei Malinkovich.
The proposal urges a broad suspension of access for all Russian artists and pop performers who use the social network as a channel to engage with their audiences. The aim, according to the party, is to curb what it describes as a harmful influence and to force a shift toward other, state-supported platforms for public communication and promotion.
In a strong voice, Malinkovich warned that should any artist choose to remain on Instagram, they would face sanctions appropriate to the offense, which could include blocking access to all their online properties within Russia. The party has already said it sent an appeal to Olga Lyubimova and is awaiting a rapid reply to its petition.
In a separate remark, the party leader referenced a past claim about St. Petersburg, insisting on the city being recognized in the way it was once styled, and noting that the Hero City of Leningrad designation remained a topic of historical debate. This comment highlights ongoing tensions over cultural and historical narratives alongside the policy proposal discussed above.