tech
February 25, 2026
Telegram founder Durov investigated in terrorism-related probe
Russia is investigating Telegram’s Pavel Durov as part of a criminal case over terrorism content on the platform, the Kremlin has said
TL;DR
- Russia is investigating Telegram and founder Pavel Durov for alleged mass violations of law and refusal to stop terrorism-related activities.
- The Kremlin claims the platform is used by radicals, drug dealers, murderers, and terrorists, and has become a tool for NATO and the 'Kiev regime'.
- High-profile attacks, including the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack, are claimed to have been coordinated via Telegram.
- Durov confirmed an investigation for 'aiding terrorism,' stating authorities are creating pretexts to restrict access and suppress privacy and free speech.
- Telegram's administration has allegedly ignored thousands of requests from Roskomnadzor to remove illegal content.
- Roskomnadzor previously slowed down Telegram's operations due to non-compliance with the law.
- Durov is also facing legal proceedings in France related to alleged failure to deter criminal activity on the platform.
- Telegram has over 1 billion active users globally, with more than 100 million in Russia.
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