Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Now Released on a €5M Bail
On Wednesday, French authorities formally charged Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, with six criminal offences related to the alleged misuse of his messaging app. The charges include complicity in managing a platform used for illegal transactions, child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, and fraud. Durov was arrested at Paris’ Le Bourget airport on Saturday and has been released on €5 million bail. He is prohibited from leaving France and must report to police twice a week.
Details of the Charges
The Paris prosecutor’s office outlined several serious allegations against Durov. These include complicity in facilitating illicit transactions and distributing illegal content via Telegram. According to the prosecutor, the messaging app has been linked to various criminal activities, including child pornography and drug trafficking. The charges also include failure to cooperate with judicial requests for information, which has exacerbated concerns about Telegram’s role in criminal activities.
“The only statement I’d wish to make is that Telegram conforms with every aspect of European norms on digital matters. It is absurd to think that the head of a social network is being charged,” commented Durov’s lawyer, David-Olivier Kaminski.
Telegram’s Response and International Reactions
Telegram has rejected the allegations, describing them as “absurd” and asserting that the platform complies with EU regulations. In a statement, Telegram emphasised that it continuously improves its moderation practices and operates within industry standards. The company also reiterated its commitment to resolving the situation swiftly.
Russian officials have labelled Durov’s arrest as politically motivated, viewing it as a reflection of Western double standards on freedom of speech. The arrest has also provoked reactions from various international figures, including Elon Musk, who has publicly supported Durov with the hashtag #freePavel.
French PresidentEmmanuel Macron has maintained that the arrest is not politically motivated but part of a legitimate legal investigation. Macron emphasised France’s commitment to freedom of expression while ensuring that such freedoms are upheld within a legal framework to protect citizens.
I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov.
France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.
The arrest has not only stirred diplomatic tensions between Paris and Moscow but also attracted international scrutiny. In contrast, the Iranian government has praised France for its strict stance on internet governance, despite Telegram’s widespread use in the country.
Conclusion
Pavel Durov’s ongoing legal battle underscores the complex intersection of technology, law, and international politics. As French authorities continue their investigation, the outcome will likely have significant implications for digital platform regulation and international relations.
