Freedom of Speech Dead in Europe Following Durov's Arrest, Says Butina

Russian lawmaker Maria Butina decried the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov as a politically-motivated act undermining freedom of speech in Europe. She labels Durov a political prisoner and accuses the West of launching a witch-hunt against him.

Russian lawmaker Maria Butina has condemned the arrest of Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder of Telegram, calling it a clear attack on free speech. Butina told Reuters on Sunday that Durov's detention signifies the death of freedom of speech across Europe.

Pavel Durov is viewed as a political prisoner by Butina, who accuses Western authorities of engaging in a witch-hunt against him.

'The arrest of Pavel Durov means freedom of speech in Europe is dead,' emphasized Butina in her statement.

(With inputs from agencies.)