Russia Investigates Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Over Alleged Terror Links

TLDR:

• Russia investigates Telegram founder Pavel Durov under Article 205.1 for alleged terrorism aid.
• Kremlin calls Telegram a “hybrid threat tool” linked to NATO and Ukrainian intelligence.
• Telegram remains widely used despite restrictions on calls and partial access blocks in Russia.
• Durov states Russia’s attempts to force users onto state-backed MAX will ultimately fail.

Russia investigates Telegram Founder Pavel Durov as authorities intensify control over digital communications in the country.

The Russian government has opened a criminal case against Telegram founder Pavel Durov under Part 1.1 of Article 205.1 of the Criminal Code for allegedly assisting terrorist activities.

The investigation relies on materials provided by the Federal Security Service (FSB) and was reported by the state-run newspaper Rossiyskaya Gazeta. Telegram continues to be widely used across Russia and Ukraine, despite growing pressure.

Criminal Investigation and Allegations Against Telegram

Russia investigates Telegram founder Pavel Durov, citing accusations of facilitating terrorist activities. According to Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Telegram has become a “tool for hybrid threats” allegedly exploited by NATO and Ukraine.

The newspaper added that the platform is “used widely by radicals and terrorists and poses a threat to our society.”

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed authorities recorded numerous violations on the app, stating, “A large number of violations and the unwillingness of Telegram’s administration to cooperate with our authorities have been recorded. Our relevant authorities are taking the measures they deem appropriate.”

The investigation specifically targets Durov under Part 1.1 of Article 205.1. Telegram has not publicly responded to the criminal case but has consistently rejected claims of being a haven for criminal activity or being compromised by foreign intelligence.

Durov, now residing in the United Arab Emirates, addressed Russia’s actions directly. He said, “Russia is restricting access to Telegram to force its citizens onto a state-controlled app built for surveillance and political censorship. This authoritarian move won’t change our course. Telegram stands for freedom and privacy, no matter the pressure.”

Russian Digital Clampdown and User Impact

Russia investigates Telegram founder Pavel Durov as part of a broader effort to control digital communication. The government has gradually restricted Telegram features, including voice and video calls, and some users experienced temporary blocks earlier this month.

Officials justify the restrictions as necessary for national security. Peskov noted authorities had identified “a large amount of material on Telegram that could potentially pose a threat to Russia.” Moscow cites deadly attacks inside Russia and alleged sabotage by Western intelligence and Ukraine.

Despite these pressures, Telegram remains widely used. It serves the Kremlin, pro-Russian bloggers, opposition groups abroad, and Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Soldiers on both sides of the conflict rely on the platform for communication and news updates.

Durov previously emphasized Telegram’s resilience, stating, “This attempt to strangle Telegram will ultimately fail.” He has also highlighted his past experience resisting censorship on VK, noting the app’s continued mission to protect privacy and free communication.

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