Kremlin spokesperson Peskov responds to Telegram CEO’s arrest in France

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that serious allegations have been made against Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, who was recently detained in France. Peskov emphasized the need for substantial evidence, warning that without it, the situation could be seen as a restriction on freedom of communication and a direct threat to the head of a major company.

Peskov addressed journalists in Moscow, responding to questions about Durov’s detention in France. He reminded them that Durov holds Russian citizenship and added, “We are ready to provide him with all necessary support, but the situation is complicated by the fact that he is also a French citizen.”

Regarding the charges against Durov, Peskov stated: “The accusations are quite serious. Therefore, substantial evidence must be presented. Otherwise, this will signify a restriction on communication freedom and a direct threat to the head of a large company. This situation would be exactly what French President Emmanuel Macron denied when he spoke about this matter yesterday.”

President Macron had defended the decision on his social media, asserting that Durov’s detention was part of a judicial investigation into Telegram and not a political move.

According to a report by The Guardian, Paris Public Prosecutor Laure Beccuau mentioned that the charges against Durov include illegal activities, child sexual abuse, fraud, and refusal to cooperate with authorities.