Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, was released on €5 million bail after being detained by French authorities at Le Bourget Airport near Paris. The arrest has sparked widespread debate in both Russia and Ukraine.
Charges Against Durov
The charges against Durov include complicity in managing an online platform to facilitate illegal transactions within an organized group and refusal to cooperate with law enforcement. These accusations have been brought forward by the Paris prosecutor's office, which stated that there are sufficient grounds for a formal investigation.
Reactions from Russia and Ukraine
Durov’s arrest has ignited outrage in Russia, with some officials calling it politically motivated and an example of the West's double standards regarding freedom of speech. Telegram has become a critical tool for communication during Moscow’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine, used by both military personnel and civilians.
Comment from French President
French authorities have highlighted the lack of cooperation from Telegram in previous investigations, particularly concerning offenses related to trafficking, online hate speech, and pedophilia. The French government has made it clear that the legal actions against Durov are based on the evidence collected as part of the ongoing investigation.
Durov, who holds both Russian and French citizenship, is now under strict legal conditions. He is barred from leaving France and must report to a police station twice a week.
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