The Russian authorities have added Meta – which owns Facebook and Instagram – to a list of terrorist and extremist organisations, the country’s Interfax agency reports.
The two platforms were banned in Russia in March for “Russophobia”.
It followed Meta’s announcement it would permit posts such as “death to Russian invaders” but not credible threats against civilians
Meta appealed against the ban but it was upheld by a Moscow court in June.
The ban did not apply to WhatsApp, which Meta also owns.
The US technology giant has rejected accusations it promotes anti-Russian sentiment.
In March, a Meta official told BBC News it was making a temporary exception to its normal policies, “in light of the ongoing invasion of Ukraine”, to allow those affected to “express violent sentiments towards invading armed forces”.
The company has been approached for comment about the latest developments
According to Interfax, being placed on a list of extremist organisations means banks can freeze Meta’s funds in Russia.
