Durov called the comparison of the Max messenger with China’s WeChat mistaken

Pavel Durov, the founder of the Max messenger, publicly rejected comparisons between Max and China's WeChat, emphasizing distinct differences in their development and operational models. This statement came amid discussions about the competitive landscape of messaging apps in Russia, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighting the importance of competition for Max's growth. Durov also dismissed the notion that government-imposed services would succeed, suggesting skepticism about state-driven digital platforms. These remarks underscore ongoing debates about digital sovereignty, market competition, and the role of government influence in Russia's tech sector.