Russian authorities have extended the detention of Pavel Durov, the founder of popular messaging app Telegram, following his arrest in Paris. Durov was apprehended in the French capital pursuant to a Russian arrest warrant issued for him in connection with a 2016 rally in Moscow. He is accused of failing to assist Russian authorities in their investigation into the activities of a banned nationalist group, charges that Durov has vehemently denied.
Durov, who was released on bail after his arrest in Paris, had been scheduled to appear before a French court for an extradition hearing. However, Russian authorities’ decision to extend his detention has raised concerns about the political nature of the case. Critics of the Kremlin have pointed to previous instances where Russian authorities have targeted individuals for their perceived opposition to the government.
Telegram, founded by Durov in 2013, has been popular among users seeking secure messaging services. The app has drawn scrutiny from governments around the world, including Russia, over its encryption features that prevent authorities from monitoring users’ communications. In 2018, Russian authorities sought to block Telegram in the country, leading to a legal battle that resulted in the app being officially banned.
Durov’s ongoing legal troubles have sparked fears among activists and free speech advocates about the potential for further crackdowns on dissent in Russia. His detention in Paris serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by tech entrepreneurs who operate in countries with strict government control over online communication. As the case continues to unfold, many will be closely watching to see how it impacts the future of internet freedom in Russia and beyond.
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