Russia has initiated a criminal investigation targeting Pavel Durov, the founder of the widely used messaging application Telegram, on suspicions of "abetting terrorist activities". This move represents a significant escalation in the Kremlin's ongoing confrontation with the platform, which remains popular across the nation.
Escalating Tensions with Telegram
The state-controlled newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta reported on Tuesday that the case was opened based on materials provided by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). The FSB has accused Telegram of being compromised by Western and Ukrainian intelligence agencies, alleging the platform has been utilised in hostile activities.
Earlier this month, Moscow announced it would deliberately slow down Telegram's traffic, citing multiple violations of Russian regulations. This strategy is part of a broader Kremlin effort to migrate tens of millions of Russian users to a state-controlled alternative messaging app known as MAX.
The Push for a 'Sovereign Internet'
This crackdown aligns with the Kremlin's ambitious project to establish a "sovereign internet"—a tightly controlled online ecosystem managed by the state. When questioned about the investigation into Durov, who resides abroad, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that authorities had identified substantial material on Telegram that could "potentially pose a threat" to Russian security.
"A large number of violations and the unwillingness of Telegram's administration to cooperate with our authorities have been recorded," Peskov remarked. "Our relevant authorities are taking the measures they deem appropriate."
Allegations of Platform Misuse
Rossiyskaya Gazeta, quoting official sources, claimed that Telegram had been involved in thirteen alleged Ukrainian plots targeting senior Russian military officers. The publication also asserted the platform was used in tens of thousands of bombings, arson attacks, and killings since the commencement of the war in Ukraine.
Despite mounting pressure, Moscow has refrained from implementing a complete block on Telegram due to its extensive usage among both civilians and officials. The app also serves as a critical communication tool on the frontline in Ukraine.
Conditions for Continued Operation
Russian officials have indicated a willingness to permit Telegram to continue operating within the country, provided it complies with Russian legislation. However, human rights campaigners warn that such compliance would likely necessitate granting Russian authorities access to private conversations and purging opposition channels from the platform.
Durov's Complex History with the Kremlin
The ultra-libertarian founder has maintained a complicated and often contentious relationship with the Russian government. Durov, aged 42, departed Russia in 2014 after selling his initial company, VK—often described as Russia's equivalent to Facebook—under pressure from authorities. He subsequently established Telegram in Dubai, where he currently resides and holds Emirati and French citizenship.
Russian authorities previously attempted to block Telegram in 2018, an effort that ultimately failed. Following this, an uneasy accommodation seemed to develop between Durov and the Kremlin. However, Moscow's renewed crackdown on media and online platforms outside its control has once again placed Telegram firmly in its crosshairs.
Broader Context of Online Restrictions
In a separate development, Russia has already blocked access to other major platforms including WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube. These restrictions have prompted a significant surge in Virtual Private Network (VPN) downloads among Russian users seeking to bypass governmental controls.
Durov has not publicly commented on the recent criminal investigation. Earlier this month, however, he criticised measures taken by Moscow, drawing comparisons to attempts by Iran to curb the platform's operations.
International Scrutiny on Telegram
The tech billionaire has also faced considerable scrutiny from Western authorities, who have criticised what they describe as weak moderation on the application. In August of last year, Durov was detained and held for three days in France during an investigation into crimes associated with Telegram, including the circulation of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, and fraudulent transactions.
This criminal case against Pavel Durov underscores the intensifying global tensions surrounding digital platforms, national security, and freedom of speech, as governments worldwide grapple with the challenges posed by rapidly evolving communication technologies.
