Russia Says Arrested Telegram Boss Durov is a Victim of His Own Freedom

Russia claims arrested Telegram boss Pavel Durov is being punished for his independent approach, with tensions rising over his detention in France

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France, sparking global attention. Known for his strong stance on privacy and freedom, Durov has built Telegram into one of the world's most popular messaging apps, with nearly 1 billion users. 

However, his "too free" approach to running the platform has now landed him in serious trouble.

Last week, a French judge placed Durov, who was born in Russia, under formal investigation. The allegations are heavy—suspected complicity in running an online platform that allows illegal activities such as drug trafficking, child abuse images, and fraud. These are serious accusations, and Durov’s arrest has stirred up significant controversy.

Durov’s lawyer quickly dismissed the claims as "absurd," arguing that it's unreasonable to hold him accountable for all activities on the app. Telegram is used by millions worldwide, especially in Russia, Ukraine, and other former Soviet countries. It’s impossible for Durov to control every action on the platform, his lawyer stressed.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov weighed in on the situation, supporting Durov. Lavrov spoke to students at Moscow’s MGIMO University, where he suggested that the investigation is part of a larger political strategy by the West. 

"Pavel Durov was too free," Lavrov said, hinting that Durov’s refusal to follow Western advice on moderating Telegram may have led to his arrest.

The Kremlin, after years of tension with Durov and his tech ventures, has now rallied behind him. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, confirmed that there were no ongoing negotiations between Durov and Russian officials. However, Peskov expressed concern over the situation in France, warning that it should not turn into political persecution. 

"We know that the president of France has denied any connection with politics, but certain accusations are being made," Peskov added.

French President Emmanuel Macron has denied any political motive behind Durov’s detention. Despite this, the situation has deepened the strain between Moscow and Paris. Lavrov has already warned that Durov’s arrest—the first of a major tech CEO—has brought relations between Russia and France to a new low.

(Reuters Report)

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