The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is closely monitoring the situation involving Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov, who was arrested by French authorities at Paris-Le Bourget Airport on Saturday. Durov, who holds multiple citizenships including Emirati, was detained as part of a judicial investigation that has sparked considerable controversy and international attention.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement expressing its commitment to ensuring Durov's rights and well-being. The ministry has formally requested that the French government provide him with full consular services, highlighting its dedication to supporting its citizens abroad. “Caring for citizens, preserving their interests, and providing them with all necessary support are top priorities for the UAE,” the statement read.
Durov, a Russian-born entrepreneur and citizen of the UAE, was taken into custody as part of a French judicial probe initiated last month. The investigation involves 12 alleged criminal violations connected to Telegram, the messaging app founded by Durov. According to the Paris prosecutor's office, the charges against Durov include complicity in facilitating illegal transactions, refusal to cooperate with law enforcement, involvement in child pornography and narcotics distribution, organized fraud, money laundering, and the unlawful provision of cryptographic tools.
The arrest has generated a significant backlash within the crypto community and among privacy advocates. Edward Snowden, the former NSA contractor known for leaking classified information, has criticized the move, suggesting it represents a threat to digital privacy and free expression.In response to the outcry, French President Emmanuel Macron defended the arrest, stating that it was not politically motivated. Macron emphasized that France remains “deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication,” despite the high-profile nature of the case.
Telegram has publicly defended Durov, asserting that the CEO “has nothing to hide” and denouncing the allegations as unfounded. The company argued that it is “absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.”Durov’s detention has been extended by a French investigative judge, but as of Monday afternoon, no formal charges have been filed. Under French law, Durov can be held for questioning for up to four days, after which a decision must be made regarding formal charges or his release.
Telegram, which has seen its user base exceed 950 million as of July, has been driven by a surge in popularity linked to crypto-based games available through integrated “mini-apps” on the platform. Among these, Hamster Kombat has gained significant traction, attracting over 300 million players in recent months and setting the stage for a major token launch and airdrop.
As the situation unfolds, the international community and privacy advocates will be watching closely to see how it affects Durov, Telegram, and broader discussions about digital privacy and freedom of expression.
August 2024, Cryptoniteuae