Macron comments on Telegram founder's detention in France for first time
Photo: Emmanuel Macron, President of France (Getty Images)
The decision by French law enforcement to detain Telegram founder Pavel Durov has no political overtones, according to French President Emmanuel Macron on Twitter (X).
He noted that false information about France has been circulating since Pavel Durov's detention.
"France is more committed than ever to freedom of speech and communication, innovation, and entrepreneurship. And it will remain so," the President emphasized.
He stated that in a rule-of-law state, freedom on social media is exercised within the framework established by law. Compliance with the law should be ensured by fully independent courts.
"The detention of the Telegram founder in France took place as part of an ongoing judicial investigation. It is by no means a political decision. Decisions should be made by judges," Macron added.
Macron's statement was released after the decision to detain Durov faced sharp criticism online, primarily from Russians.
What preceded
On the evening of August 24, Telegram founder Pavel Durov was detained at the airport near Paris.
According to law enforcement, the founder of the popular social network is suspected of money laundering, terrorism, fraud, and more. As a result, Durov could face up to 20 years in prison.
In response, Telegram’s administration asserts that Durov is innocent, as the social network adheres to the regulations in place in the European Union.
For all details on the detention of the Telegram founder, see the RBC-Ukraine material.
