The Russian-born founder of the popular messaging app Telegram, Pavel Durov, was arrested in France on Saturday evening at Le Bourget airport near Paris.
The arrest is part of a broader investigation into allegations of child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraudulent transactions on the platform, French prosecutors announced on Monday.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the arrest, emphasizing that it was not politically motivated despite widespread speculation online. Macron assured that France remains committed to upholding lawful free speech. “The arrest of Telegram’s founder on French soil is part of an ongoing judicial investigation and is in no way a political decision. It is for the judiciary to determine the outcome,” Macron stated on X.
Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau revealed that Durov’s arrest was linked to an investigation initiated on July 8 by the cybercrime unit of the Paris prosecutor’s office. The probe targets various crimes including operating a platform that facilitates illegal transactions, child pornography, drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and providing cryptographic services to criminals. Durov is currently being held until Wednesday, as per the legal process.
Telegram, which boasts nearly 1 billion users globally, including significant followings in Russia, Ukraine, and former Soviet republics, has not released details regarding Durov’s arrest. The company reiterated its compliance with European Union laws and stated that its moderation practices align with industry standards. “Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide and frequently travels throughout Europe. It is unreasonable to hold a platform or its owner responsible for misuse by others,” the company said in a statement.
The arrest has drawn criticism from high-profile figures, including Elon Musk, who condemned it as an attack on free speech in Europe. The Russian government has called for clarity on the charges against Durov. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated, “We do not yet have details on the specific accusations against Durov. Without knowing the exact nature of the charges, it is premature to make any statements.”
The Russian embassy in Paris reported that French authorities had not yet provided consular access to Durov but confirmed ongoing communication with his legal representatives.
Pavel Durov, 39, known as “Russia’s Mark Zuckerberg,” holds dual citizenship in France and the United Arab Emirates. Despite his significant fortune, estimated by Forbes at $15.5 billion, Durov has maintained that his app should remain neutral and not be involved in geopolitical conflicts. He acquired French citizenship in 2021 through an expedited process reserved for high-profile individuals, a move that has raised questions given his lack of residency in France.
The French foreign ministry, which oversees the naturalization process, did not respond to requests for comment on Durov’s citizenship. Similarly, the Elysee presidential office deferred to the foreign ministry for details.
Durov’s naturalization was facilitated under special provisions for individuals who significantly contribute to France’s international economic relations. His case is among the rare instances processed under this expedited procedure, which is typically reserved for high-impact individuals.
The situation remains fluid as legal proceedings continue and more information becomes available regarding the charges against Durov and the implications for Telegram.
