Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, released on €5 million bail after being detained by French authorities, according to Politico. The arrest, which occurred at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, has sparked widespread controversy and debate, especially in Russia and Ukraine, where Telegram plays a significant role in communication. 

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. 

Durov’s detention is part of a broader judicial inquiry into allegations that his platform has been used for various criminal activities, including child sexual abuse and drug trafficking. 

The investigation does not imply guilt but indicates that the French legal system sees enough evidence to pursue the case further.

Charges Against Durov 

The charges against Durov are severe. They 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 into these matters. 

French authorities have highlighted the lack of cooperation from Telegram in previous investigations, particularly concerning offenses related to trafficking, online hate speech, and pedophilia.

Telegram has faced criticism for its perceived lack of content moderation, especially concerning the spread of illegal and harmful content on the platform. The app, known for its emphasis on privacy and encryption, has been accused of being a haven for criminal activities. 

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.

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the controversy surrounding Durov’s arrest, asserting that it was not a politically motivated act but part of an independent investigation into serious criminal activities. 

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 into Telegram’s role in facilitating illegal transactions and other illicit activities.