Telegram CEO Durov Arrested in France
Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder and CEO of the Telegram messaging app, was arrested at Bourget airport near Paris on Saturday evening, reports Reuters. TF1 TV and BFM TV reported the news, citing unnamed sources. Durov was traveling on his private jet when authorities apprehended him based on a French arrest warrant related to a preliminary police investigation.
The investigation centers around Telegram's lack of moderation, leading authorities to believe that it facilitated criminal activities. French media reports indicate that Durov may face an indictment as early as Sunday.
Telegram's Place in Communication
Telegram has nearly one billion users and holds considerable influence, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and former Soviet republics. It stands out as one of the major social media platforms, alongside giants like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. The platform's cryptographic features attract users seeking secure and anonymous communication. Telegram did not provide immediate comments to Reuters, nor did the French Interior Ministry or police.
Durov, born in Russia, co-founded Telegram with his brother in 2013. After facing government pressure to shut down dissenting voices on VKontakte, he left Russia in 2014. "I would rather be free than take orders from anyone," Durov stated during an interview regarding his departure from Russia. He sought a base for his company, spending time in cities like Berlin, London, and San Francisco.
Impact of the Ukrainian Conflict
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Telegram emerged as a significant platform for unfiltered information regarding the war from all sides involved. Political figures, including Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, utilize the app extensively. Meanwhile, the Russian government engages on Telegram to disseminate its perspectives.
Telegram's unique ability to allow users to evade scrutiny has made it a rare source of independent news within Russia amidst increasing governmental restrictions. The Russian foreign ministry confirmed it is addressing the circumstances of Durov's arrest and urged Western NGOs to advocate for his freedom.
Response to Durov's Arrest
TF1 noted that Durov, who was in transit from Azerbaijan, was taken into custody around 8 p.m. (UTC +0). Durov's fortune is estimated to be around $15.5 billion. He stated that while some governments seek to exert pressure on him, Telegram's mission is to remain "a neutral platform," steering clear of geopolitical involvement.
In reaction to Durov’s detention, several Russian officials criticized France for perceived oppression. Mikhail Ulyanov, Russia's representative in Vienna, argued that acknowledging someone's visible role in international media makes travel to more restrictive nations perilous.
Elon Musk, now owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), made a provocative statement regarding Durov’s arrest, highlighting the perceived extremism in Europe today. Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the urgent need to defend free speech amid these developments.
Reporters indicate several Russian bloggers planned protests at French embassies globally, contributing to the dialogue surrounding Durov's arrest and free expression.
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