Telegram's Chief Durov Under Fire Amid Unprecedented French Investigation

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov is under formal investigation in France, accused of the platform's complicity in illicit activities. This marks a strain in Russia-France relations and raises debates about social media accountability. Durov, granted bail, faces allegations of child abuse content facilitation, drug trafficking, and money laundering.

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, finds himself at the heart of an unprecedented investigation in France. Accusations involving his messaging platform's complicity in illicit acts, including child abuse content, drug trafficking, and money laundering, have put Durov under formal scrutiny, raising significant questions about social media accountability and freedom of speech.

This development has further strained relations between France and Russia. The Kremlin has expressed concerns about potential political motives behind the investigation, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov highlighting the deteriorating diplomatic ties. However, French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized the judiciary's independence in the case, dismissing any political undertones.

Adding to the drama, social media tycoons like Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have also voiced their opinions, reflecting broader tensions between governments and tech giants. Durov's bail conditions include staying within French territory and regular police reporting, underscoring the seriousness of the charges and the far-reaching implications for global social media governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)