Moscow, August 26, 2024, The Europe Today: Pavel Durov, the founder of the widely-used messaging platform Telegram, was arrested by French authorities on Saturday after his private jet landed at Paris-Le Bourget Airport. Durov, who holds citizenship in France, the UAE, and Saint Kitts and Nevis, faces allegations related to his platform’s use by criminal elements. An official statement from the French authorities is expected today.
Tatyana Moskalkova, Russia’s top human rights official, has publicly criticized the arrest, asserting that it is a move to shut down Telegram, which she describes as a vital space for uncensored information. Moskalkova condemned the action as “another gross violation of freedom of speech” and a “glaring example of double standards” from countries that profess democracy while undermining it.
In her statement, Moskalkova emphasized that Durov’s arrest reflects a broader attempt to suppress platforms that offer unfiltered news and support free expression. She defended Durov as a proponent of unrestricted communication and criticized the underlying motives of the arrest.
Telegram issued a response on Sunday, asserting its compliance with EU laws and content-moderation policies. The company characterized the notion that Durov is responsible for misuse of the platform as “absurd” and reiterated its commitment to adhering to legal standards. Earlier this year, Telegram appointed a Belgian legal representative to reinforce its EU compliance efforts.
Durov has been known for his resistance to government pressures to provide user data or install surveillance mechanisms, and he has previously faced scrutiny from various governments, including the US and Russia. His vocal criticisms of the Russian government were among the reasons cited for his departure from Russia in the 2010s and his subsequent relocation to the UAE.
The arrest has drawn condemnation from several Russian politicians who suggest it may be politically motivated. Public figures in the West, including journalist Tucker Carlson and entrepreneur Elon Musk, have also expressed support for Durov, highlighting the ongoing debate over digital freedom and government control.
The situation continues to develop, and further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.
