Macron claims Telegram CEO Durov was not arrested for political reasons

French police announced the detention of Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, on charges related to financial and cyber crimes. French President Emmanuel Macron clarified that Durov’s arrest was due to judicial matters, not politically motivated.

Following Durov’s detention in France, the first official statement came from French authorities. In a social media post, Macron stated, “I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov. France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, innovation, and the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.”

Macron further emphasized that Durov’s detention was not politically driven but related to legal issues, adding, “In a state governed by the rule of law, freedoms are upheld within a legal framework, both on social media and in real life, to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights.”

I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov.

France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.

In a state governed by the rule of law,…

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 26, 2024

Durov was detained on August 24 around 8:00 PM local time at Le Bourget Airport in Paris as he disembarked from his private jet.

French judicial authorities have decided to extend Durov’s detention by 48 hours. France limits detention to a maximum of 96 hours. Upon the conclusion of this period, Durov may either receive his release or confront additional legal action.

Russia has issued a note to France requesting access to Durov, while Telegram has dismissed the allegations against its founder as “nonsense.