Pavel Durov: The Controversial Tech Mogul in Crossfire Over Telegram's Use

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, is entangled in a legal battle with French prosecutors over allegations involving fraud and criminal activities on his platform. The case has sparked a strong reaction from Russia, highlighting Durov's complicated history with the Kremlin and his role as a free speech advocate.

Days after gunmen killed 145 concert-goers at a venue near Moscow in March, the Kremlin called out Telegram CEO Pavel Durov due to allegations that terrorists were recruited on the messaging app.

"We would expect more attention from Pavel Durov, as this unique and phenomenal resource is increasingly becoming a tool in the hands of terrorists," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Five months later, French prosecutors are investigating Durov over fraud and other organized crimes on Telegram, prompting Moscow to alter its narrative.

Although Durov is now seen by some Russians as a hero of free speech, Peskov stated that the case should "not turn into political persecution". Russian lawmakers claim the allegations are a plot by Washington to undermine Russia, a charge denied by French authorities.