By Mark Trevelyan Feb 11 (Reuters) - Russia's curbs on the messaging app Telegram could affect battlefield communications as well as prevent soldiers from keeping in touch with their families, critics charged on Wednesday in an angry backlash against the latest restrictions.

In a major escalation of internet censorship the internet and communication watchdog Roskomnadzor officially began restricting access to Telegram messenger in Russia on February 10, The Bell reported citing anecdotal evidence later confirmed to RBC business portal by the watchdog itself.

Telegram announced some new changes and features to its iOS and Android apps on Monday, including an odd gift feature.

Russia's communications regulator Roskomnadzor said it would "continue to introduce phased restrictions" on Telegram over legal violations. View on euronews

Russia has imposed further curbs on Telegram, citing failure to curb criminal activity, drawing criticism from politicians and regional officials who warn the restrictions could disrupt communications for soldiers and civilians.

Over 100 million users can now fund their TON Wallet using crypto from the most popular blockchains – no additional bridges, swaps or manual conversions required. Wallet in Telegram today announced the launch of cross-chain deposits in its self-custodial TON Wallet,

I don’t think it’s possible to imagine that frontline communications are conducted via Telegram or any other messenger,” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. “It’s hard and impossible to imagine.” Peskov was responding to statements by pro-war “Z-bloggers,

It also made announcements related to collectible gifts and bot buttons. Telegram has announced that it's rolling out a fully redesigned interface for