Russia Charges Telegram Founder Pavel Durov
The Federal Security Service (FSB), Russia’s main domestic security agency, announced charges against Pavel Durov, founder of the messaging app Telegram, on Wednesday. Durov faces accusations of aiding terrorism and has been placed on an international wanted list.
Durov, who launched Telegram in Russia before relocating abroad, is being targeted as part of an effort by Russian authorities to bring the internet under Kremlin control. This campaign intensified post the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Following the announcement, Telegram’s official account on social media shared an image of Durov making an obscene gesture. There was no further immediate response from Durov or Telegram.
Details of the Accusations
The FSB claimed that Telegram failed to remove numerous channels and bots used by Ukrainian intelligence and extremist groups to plan terrorism and sabotage activities in Russia. This allegedly resulted in numerous casualties.
The agency accused Ukrainian services of exploiting a dating chatbot on Telegram to recruit Russians for these activities. Since July 2025, 46 users, aged 12 to 22, were detained for attacking law enforcement and committing arson, among other acts.
Pavel Durov’s Response
Earlier this year, Durov revealed that the Russian authorities opened a criminal investigation against him, which he regards as an attempt to suppress privacy and freedom of speech.
Telegram states its base is in Dubai, where Durov, a dual citizen of France and the United Arab Emirates, resides. If convicted in Russia, Durov might face a life sentence.
Russia’s Internet Restrictions
Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia has restricted internet access, enacting laws that ban non-compliant websites and platforms. Popular apps, including Facebook and Instagram, are banned, and WhatsApp and Telegram face restrictions.
WhatsApp accused Russia of blocking its platform to coerce users into adopting a state-controlled messaging app, endangering privacy and security for millions of users.
Previous Investigations against Durov
Durov has faced legal challenges elsewhere. In 2024, he was arrested in Paris over allegations of Telegram being used for illegal activities. In 2025, Durov returned to Dubai after spending several months in France. Russian officials criticized these French actions as selectively targeting Durov.
President Putin remarked on global concerns over platforms like Telegram being misused, suggesting such actions should not be limited to Durov alone.