The founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, has been released on bail while facing investigations in France for allegations including drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and child abuse. Telegram has been used as a communication tool for opposition movements in dictatorships.
Durov's brother, Nikolai Durov, who is considered the mastermind behind the network, resides in St. Petersburg. The Kremlin has expressed hope that the proceedings in France do not become politicized.
Surprisingly, some Kremlin-affiliated military bloggers have shown support for France's actions. Concerns about Durov's close ties to the Kremlin persist.
Meanwhile, Telegram is facing financial problems, with doubts about its planned IPO and the repayment of $2.4 billion in bonds by 2026. The company reported a loss of $174 million in 2022, threatening its goal of profitability.
Durov's potential conviction and imprisonment would be devastating for Telegram, as he is involved in every important decision. Additionally, the association with child pornography could deter advertisers and complicate the IPO.
The case has sparked a debate on platform regulation, particularly in relation to the Digital Services Act in the EU, which aims to hold social media accountable. If designated as a 'very large platform,' Telegram could face penalties for understating its user numbers.
