Telegram founder Pavel Durov has spoken out against the ongoing French investigation into his activities, describing the case as both “legally and logically absurd.” His comments come nearly a year after his arrest at a Paris airport in August 2024, with authorities still unable to present concrete evidence to support the accusations against him.
Durov continues to face strict travel restrictions, including mandatory biweekly check-ins with French judicial authorities. While he was temporarily allowed to return to Dubai earlier this year, where Telegram’s headquarters and his family are based, his movements remain tightly controlled, with any international travel requiring prior approval from French judges.
The tech entrepreneur expressed frustration at the toll the case has taken on his personal life, noting that despite the seriousness of the allegations, investigators have failed to establish any direct link between him or Telegram and the alleged criminal activities.
The situation highlights broader debates about the accountability of tech leaders for how their platforms are used. For now, Durov’s legal battle remains unresolved, casting uncertainty over both his personal freedom and the future direction of Telegram.
