Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Awaits Charges in France as Firm Denies Law-Breaking
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has been detained in France, awaiting a decision on whether he will face criminal charges. His arrest follows accusations that Telegram failed to cooperate with law enforcement over issues related to drug trafficking, child sexual content, and other illegal activities. French authorities extended Durov’s detention to allow up to 96 hours for questioning, after which a judge will decide whether to release him or press charges. Telegram has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that it complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act, and has maintained that Durov has nothing to hide, frequently traveling across Europe. The charges are reportedly linked to a broader investigation into alleged offenses like fraud, cyberbullying, organized crime, and failure to cooperate with law enforcement.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Durov's arrest was not politically motivated, but part of an independent judicial investigation. The case has sparked international attention, with figures like Elon Musk and Edward Snowden speaking out in support of Durov. Telegram, widely used for both private messaging and as a social network, is facing scrutiny over its encryption policies and its role in various international contexts, including its use by Russian military personnel and bloggers. The arrest has raised concerns about Telegram's future operations, particularly regarding its ability to function in regions where it is heavily utilized, like Russia.?