The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has charged Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, with aiding terrorism. Durov, who began his career in Russia, is now on an international wanted list. This move aligns with Russia’s ongoing effort to control the internet, which has intensified since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
In response to the charges, Telegram’s official account posted an image of Durov showing an obscene gesture. There has been no further comment from Durov or the company. The FSB accuses Telegram of not removing content used for coordinating acts of terrorism and cyber fraud. They allege Ukrainian agencies use Telegram to recruit Russians for unlawful activities, with 46 arrests linked to these accusations.
Durov claims these charges are fabricated to silence free speech and restrict privacy. He faces up to life in prison if convicted. Telegram states its base is in Dubai, where Durov, holding French and UAE citizenship, resides. Russian authorities have increased internet restrictions, banning or blocking popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Signal, and Viber. WhatsApp and Telegram have faced restrictions too.
WhatsApp condemned Russia’s attempts to block the app, stating it isolates millions from private communication. Despite these restrictions, some users bypass them using VPNs, which remain legal in Russia. VK, another platform founded by Durov, now operates under Kremlin-friendly control.
Russia’s attempt to block Telegram from 2018 to 2020 was unsuccessful, but restrictions persist, with many VPN services also blocked. Meanwhile, Russia promotes the national app MAX, criticized for potential surveillance and lacking end-to-end encryption.
Durov has faced legal issues beyond Russia. In 2024, French authorities arrested him over claims of illegal activities on Telegram. He returned to Dubai after some time in France. The Kremlin criticized France for perceived selective actions against Durov. Russian President Vladimir Putin remarked that other platforms face similar issues, indicating a broad defense of Durov’s situation.
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