Russia's new move against Telegram: Terror investigation opened into Durov

The Russian administration has recently increased the measures it has taken, claiming that the Telegram application poses a risk to national security. It was reported that a criminal investigation has been launched against the platform's founder, Pavel Durov, for "aiding terrorist activities" at the initiative of the Federal Security Service (FSB).

According to information based on FSB sources, it was alleged that Telegram has turned into a "hybrid threat" element and is being used for various purposes, particularly by NATO and Ukraine.

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov pointed out that content that could pose a danger to Russia is being published on Telegram and stated that the relevant authorized institutions are monitoring the process.

In statements made from Russia, it was reported that the data flow and content on the application have reached a level that threatens state security; therefore, steps such as slowing down access and imposing restrictions on Telegram have accelerated in recent months. While some users have encountered short-term access blocks, the Moscow government has called on citizens to turn to the state-supported messaging application called MAX.

DUROV: PRESSURES WILL REMAIN FRUITLESS

Telegram founder Pavel Durov had previously stated in his remarks that Russia wants to bring the application completely under state control. Emphasizing that Telegram will "remain committed to freedom and privacy," Durov said that the government's pressures would not be successful.

In Russia, under the shadow of the ongoing war with Ukraine, audits of VPN services and digital communication platforms have been tightened. While the Moscow administration justifies these steps with security concerns, Western countries keep the criticism that Russia is trying to increase its control in the digital environment on the agenda.

Telegram continues to be used widely as one of the primary news and information sharing platforms in the country by both pro-government groups and opposition channels.

News Source: 12punto