Russian authorities have formally charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with facilitating terrorism and issued an international arrest warrant, marking a major escalation in the country’s long-running dispute with the messaging platform.
FSB Accuses Telegram of Aiding Terrorist Activity
According to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), Telegram allegedly failed to remove content that authorities claim was used by extremist groups and Ukrainian intelligence to coordinate terrorism, sabotage, and cybercrime inside Russia. If convicted, Durov could face life in prison under Russian law.
Durov Pushes Back
Earlier this year, Durov rejected the allegations, saying:
“Authorities fabricate new pretexts to restrict Russians’ access to Telegram as they seek to suppress the right to privacy and free speech.”
Neither Durov nor Telegram has commented on today’s latest charges.
Pressure on Telegram Continues
The case comes as Russia continues tightening control over online platforms while promoting its own state-backed messaging app. Telegram, which has more than one billion users worldwide, has remained under increasing legal and regulatory pressure in multiple countries.
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