Arrest warrant issued for Telegram founder

Russian security services have added Telegram founder and owner Pavel Durov to an international wanted list on charges of providing "support for terrorism." These accusations against Durov have emerged at a time when the Russian government is attempting to increase its oversight of the internet and tighten its control over Telegram.

Durov, who was born in Russia and has been living abroad for some time, heads Telegram, one of the most widely used digital messaging applications in the country. The latest development signals a new dimension in the Kremlin's pressure campaign to curb the influential communication network that Telegram maintains within the country.

TERRORISM AND SABOTAGE ALLEGATIONS

In a statement from the FSB, it was alleged that the Telegram administration has enabled the activities of Ukrainian intelligence agencies and extremist groups by failing to remove numerous chats and bots organized for sabotage, terrorist acts, mass killings, and cyber fraud in Russia.

Security officials argue that these omissions have led to deaths in the country. It was specifically stated that Ukrainian security services have been using popular connection tools on Telegram to incite Russian citizens to commit crimes. Furthermore, it was emphasized that since July 2025, 46 Telegram bot users, aged between 12 and 22, have been detained by security forces for attacks, arson, and similar acts.

DUROV FACES IMPRISONMENT

In a statement made at the beginning of the year, Pavel Durov confirmed that Russian authorities had launched a criminal investigation against him and accused officials of obstructing freedom of expression and privacy under the pretext of restricting access to Telegram.

Durov had issued a warning, stating that the official authorities were "fabricating justifications." If found guilty, he faces the risk of life imprisonment under Russian law. The Telegram and Durov camp have not yet made a statement regarding the current allegations.

News Source: 12punto