Legal Turmoil for Telegram CEO Pavel Durov: Freedom of Speech vs. Legal Responsibility

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov is under formal investigation in France for allegedly allowing illegal activities on the platform. His lawyer decries the charges as absurd. The arrest has escalated tensions between France and Russia, with the Kremlin warning against political persecution.

Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, faces a formal investigation in France, accused of permitting illegal activities on the platform. His lawyer insists the claims are unfounded. The case has intensified tensions between France and Russia, with significant diplomatic repercussions.

Durov was detained at Le Bourget airport and is under suspicion for complicity in illicit transactions, child sex abuse, and drug trafficking on Telegram. Despite accusations of money laundering and non-cooperation with authorities, Durov maintains he has nothing to hide.

This case highlights the increasingly fraught relationship between governments and social media giants, evident in other international actions against platforms like X and Meta. French authorities' handling of the case will be closely watched, given its political and legal ramifications.

(With inputs from agencies.)