Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Faces Legal Charges in France Amid Controversy

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Faces Charges in France

French prosecutors are poised to either charge or release Pavel Durov, the CEO of the popular messaging app Telegram, as his police custody order is set to expire on Wednesday. Durov, a Russian-born tech entrepreneur, was escorted to a Paris courthouse early Wednesday afternoon, suggesting that an indictment could be forthcoming, according to reports from French media citing sources familiar with the case.

Durov’s legal troubles began on Saturday when he was detained at Le Bourget Airport, located just outside Paris. This arrest is part of a broader judicial inquiry that was initiated last month, encompassing a staggering twelve alleged criminal violations. These allegations include the use of Telegram for the sale of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, fraud, and facilitating organized crime transactions. Furthermore, Telegram has reportedly refused to provide necessary information or documents to investigators when legally required.

The Paris prosecutor’s office announced that Durov’s police custody was extended on Monday evening for an additional 48 hours. Under French law, authorities must either charge him or release him once this period concludes. Should he be charged, the risk of flight will be a significant factor for judges to consider regarding possible pretrial detention, particularly given that Durov possesses multiple nationalities.

International Reactions and Political Implications

The arrest of Durov has sparked considerable outrage in Russia, where several government officials have labeled it as politically motivated, indicative of a Western double standard when it comes to freedom of speech. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed hope that Durov would have the “necessary opportunities for his legal defense” and indicated that Moscow is prepared to extend all necessary assistance to the Telegram CEO as a Russian national. However, Peskov noted that Durov’s dual citizenship with France complicates the situation.

In Iran, where Telegram remains a widely used platform despite being officially banned, Durov’s arrest has drawn comments from the Islamic Republic’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei offered veiled praise for France’s strict measures against those who “violate your governance” of the Internet.

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the situation on Monday, asserting that Durov’s arrest was not politically motivated but rather part of an independent investigation. Macron took to social media platform X to affirm that France is “deeply committed” to upholding freedom of expression, while emphasizing that such freedoms must operate within a legal framework to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights.

Following Durov’s arrest, Telegram released a statement asserting that it complies with EU laws and aims for moderation that meets industry standards. The statement read, “It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.” The company highlighted its extensive user base, stating, “Almost a billion users globally utilize Telegram for communication and as a vital information source. We’re hopeful for a swift resolution of this situation. Telegram stands with you all.”

Durov also holds citizenship from the United Arab Emirates, where Telegram is headquartered. The UAE Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday that it is “closely monitoring the case” and has requested that France provide Durov with all necessary consular services as a matter of urgency.