Telegram CEO Durov Arrested and Granted Bail in France

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has been arrested in France and charged with facilitating various illegal activities on his platform, including child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, money laundering, and violence against his child. A coordinated investigation involving French and Swiss authorities led to his arrest. Durov, a Russian-born billionaire with multiple citizenships, has been granted bail under conditions that include a €5 million deposit and restrictions on leaving France. His laissez-faire approach to moderation on Telegram has put him at odds with governments, despite prior attempts by officials like French President Emmanuel Macron to court him. The case has drawn international attention, with the UAE and Russia requesting consular access for Durov. The charges against him highlight the tension between digital privacy, security, and government oversight.