Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Denounces French Authorities’ Treatment Amid Legal Battle

Pavel Durov, founder of encrypted messaging app Telegram, has publicly criticized French authorities for what he describes as unjust treatment following his arrest on charges including alleged involvement in drug trafficking, money laundering, and organized fraud. Durov, in an interview with a French news outlet, framed the case as a politically motivated attack, asserting that neither he nor Telegram has been proven guilty of any wrongdoing.

The legal saga has escalated into a broader debate about platform accountability. "Criminals using Telegram doesn’t make its operators criminals," Durov argued, highlighting the tension between privacy advocates and regulatory demands. His travel ban—imposed before trial—has drawn particular ire as an overreach.

Telegram’s legal team claims full cooperation with investigators, submitting requested documents and meeting with judges multiple times in 2024 and 2025. Yet Durov contends the protracted process—with another hearing scheduled for July—unfairly restricts his freedom without due process.