Snowden: The arrest of Durov is an attack on the fundamental human rights of freedom of expression and association.
The arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov by French authorities is an attack on the fundamental human rights of freedom of expression and association, according to NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden on X.
The French authorities have since issued a statement regarding Durov’s arrest. They stated that the Telegram founder was detained as part of an investigation that began in early July (pdf). The investigation focuses on complicity in various criminal activities, including fraud, child pornography, illegal transactions, drug trafficking, and refusal to cooperate with information requests from the French authorities.
Within this ‘procedural framework,’ Durov is being questioned by investigators from the Paris Prosecutor General’s office. His provisional detention has been extended until August 28.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened that Macron has descended to the level of taking hostages as a means of gaining access to private communications. This not only causes France to deteriorate but the entire world,” Snowden stated.
Macron responded in a message claiming that this is not a political decision.
“The arrest of Durov is a disturbing attack on freedom of expression and not just a threat to Telegram, but to every online platform,” said computer scientist Lex Fridman on X. “Governments should not be involved in censorship. This is blatant and very disturbing abuse of power.”
You could also have a different perspective but based on assumptions. Was he really arrested because Telegram is not cooperating with information requests? Or is this actually a staged event to protect him from Putin, who just before this rejected an attempt by Durov to have a conversation in Azerbaijan?
Or is it perhaps about the fact that not only Ukrainian but also Russian military forces are heavily using Telegram for important communications, and this is a way to disrupt Russian communication?
And why does Durov have French nationality in addition to that of the UAE? Why did he receive it without the usual requirements, such as having to live there for many years first? Could this indicate that something was already going on between him and France at that time? Or did he just receive special treatment because he is extremely wealthy, in the country of liberty, equality, and fraternity?