Pavel Durov Arrested: A Shocking Turn for Telegram's Founder
Pavel Durov, the founder of the widely-used encrypted messaging application Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget Airport near Paris on Saturday evening. This unexpected arrest comes amid various allegations against the app, which has garnered both popularity and controversy due to its encryption features. Durov, who is also a French-Russian billionaire with an estimated wealth of $15 billion, was reportedly detained based on a search warrant issued by French authorities. He was arriving from Azerbaijan, accompanied by his bodyguard and assistant, when the arrest took place.
The Implications of Durov’s Arrest on Telegram
The French judiciary has accused Durov of failing to act against the abusive use of Telegram by certain users, sparking a wave of criticism and questions about the platform's responsibility in moderating content. French media have highlighted that the authorities believe Durov's actions—or lack thereof—may reflect a sense of impunity. As Telegram continues to grow, boasting around 900 million users, the implications of this arrest are significant, potentially impacting its operations and user trust.
Russian Government Responds to Durov’s Detention
In the wake of Durov's arrest, the Russian Foreign Ministry has swiftly responded, indicating that its embassy in Paris is taking necessary steps to clarify the situation. The ministry has criticized the French authorities for their treatment of Durov, emphasizing the need for transparency and protection of his rights. Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, pointed out that Western non-governmental organizations had previously called for leniency towards Durov during a 2018 incident when the Russian court attempted to block Telegram. This raises questions about international relations and the political implications surrounding Durov’s arrest.
