Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder and CEO of Telegram, remains in French custody as authorities have extended his detention by an additional 48 hours until August 28, 2024. The Paris prosecutor’s office has confirmed that Durov faces 12 charges, including complicity in drug trafficking, child exploitation, and fraudulent activities on the Telegram platform.The arrest, which took place on August 24 at Paris’ Le Bourget airport, has sparked international debate and diplomatic tensions. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed that Durov’s detention proves Telegram’s reliability and security, stating, ‘The use of this platform is very convenient, it is truly secure… this has already been proven by the actions of the French, that Telegram is indeed a reliable and popular network’.Meanwhile, Vyacheslav Volodin, chairman of Russia’s State Duma, has accused the United States of being behind Durov’s arrest, alleging that the U.S. is attempting to exert control over Telegram through France. However, French President Emmanuel Macron continues to insist that the arrest is ‘in no way a political decision’ but rather part of an ongoing judicial investigation.The case has drawn attention to Durov’s complex citizenship status, as he holds passports from Russia, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. This has complicated the diplomatic response, with both Russian and UAE authorities expressing concern and requesting consular access.Interestingly, TechCrunch has reported an increase in Telegram downloads in the US and France following Durov’s arrest, suggesting a potential backfire effect of the authorities’ actions. As the investigation continues, the case raises important questions about platform responsibility, freedom of speech, and the geopolitical implications of regulating global communication platforms.
Key points
- Pavel Durov’s detention in France has been extended by 48 hours, facing 12 charges including complicity in drug trafficking and child exploitation.
- Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, claim the arrest proves Telegram’s security and allege US involvement.
- The case has sparked international debate about platform responsibility and freedom of speech, with Telegram downloads reportedly increasing since Durov’s arrest.
Contradictionsđź‘ľWhile French President Macron insists the arrest is not politically motivated, Russian officials claim it’s an attempt by the US to control Telegram.
đź‘ľTelegram states it complies with EU laws, but French authorities accuse Durov of refusing to cooperate and share necessary information.
