French President Emmanuel Macron clarified on Monday that the recent arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov in France is tied to an independent investigation, not political motives. Durov was detained at a Paris airport on Saturday, facing allegations that his platform facilitated money laundering, drug trafficking, and other crimes.
Durov, who holds citizenship in Russia, France, the United Arab Emirates, and St. Kitts and Nevis, was apprehended based on an arrest warrant. Macron addressed the matter on social media, emphasizing France’s commitment to freedom of expression within the bounds of the law. He stressed that the arrest is not politically motivated and that the judiciary will handle the case.
Russian officials have condemned the arrest, suggesting it reflects the West’s double standard on free speech. Telegram, with nearly a billion users globally, was created by Durov and his brother following the Russian government’s crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 and 2012. The platform has been crucial for communication in Russia and Ukraine, particularly for news and alerts.
I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov.
France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.
In a state governed by the rule of law,…
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 26, 2024
Telegram issued a statement post-arrest, asserting compliance with EU laws and industry standards. The platform denied responsibility for misuse by users and called for a swift resolution. A French judge extended Durov’s detention on Sunday night, with French law allowing up to four days of questioning before a decision on charges or release.
The Russian Embassy in Paris reported that consular officials were denied access to Durov due to his French citizenship being considered primary. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated the charges against Durov remain unclear, urging patience until official announcements are made.
#FreePavel
pic.twitter.com/B7AcJWswMs— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 25, 2024
Elon Musk, owner of the social media platform X, voiced support for Durov with a “#freePavel” post. Western governments have often criticized Telegram for inadequate content moderation, which they argue can enable illegal activities.
In 2022, Germany fined Telegram $5 million for failing to comply with reporting and communication laws. Additionally, Brazil temporarily suspended Telegram last year for not providing data in a neo-Nazi activity investigation tied to school shootings.
What Other Media Are Saying
- ABC News reports that French President Emmanuel Macron states the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was not a political move but part of an independent investigation, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedoms within a legal framework. (read more)
- AP News reports that French President Emmanuel Macron clarified the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, stating it was not politically motivated but part of an impartial investigation, emphasizing the importance of exercising freedoms within a legal framework to safeguard citizens’ rights. (read more)
- Tricity Record NM reports that French President Emmanuel Macron defended the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, stating it was not politically motivated, emphasizing the importance of upholding freedoms within a legal framework. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was Pavel Durov arrested in France?
Pavel Durov was arrested due to an investigation alleging his platform was used for money laundering, drug trafficking, and other offenses.
Is Pavel Durov’s arrest politically motivated?
French President Macron stated the arrest is not political but part of an independent investigation.
What did Telegram say about Durov’s arrest?
Telegram stated that it abides by EU laws and claimed it’s absurd to hold the platform or its owner responsible for misuse.
How long can Durov be detained under French law?
Durov can be detained for questioning for up to four days before judges must decide to charge or release him.
How has the Russian government reacted to Durov’s arrest?
Russian officials expressed outrage, calling the arrest politically driven and highlighting a perceived double standard on freedom of speech.