Macron Defends Fast-Track Citizenship Amid Telegram CEO Controversy

French President Emmanuel Macron has defended the special fast-track citizenship of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, who is facing charges over alleged criminal activity on his platform. Macron claimed no prior knowledge of Durov's arrival in France before his arrest, inviting reactions from various groups and highlighting challenges in policing online activity.

French President Emmanuel Macron has defended his decision to grant special fast-track citizenship to Telegram messaging app CEO Pavel Durov, who faces preliminary charges in France related to criminal activity on his platform.

Macron stated that he was unaware of Durov's planned arrival before his unexpected arrest over the weekend and had no scheduled meetings with him.

The case has drawn international reactions from free-speech advocates, far-right figures, and authoritarian governments, who have criticized French authorities. Durov, released on a 5 million euro bail, is barred from leaving France and must report to a police station twice a week pending further investigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)