French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the recent arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov. He stated that it was not politically motivated but part of an ongoing judicial investigation. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Macron reiterated France’s commitment to freedom of expression, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He emphasized that in a state governed by the rule of law, freedoms are upheld within a legal framework. As a result, it protects citizens and respects their fundamental rights.
Durov was arrested on Saturday at Le Bourget airport in Paris, and the news immediately spread worldwide. The Russian Embassy in France countered by alleging that the French authorities have been unhelpful in enabling the Russian authorities to get closer to Durov. At the same time, the Emirati Foreign Ministry reacted anxiously, calling on the French authorities to ensure that Durov received the necessary consular support.
On Monday, the French Central Office for the Prevention of Digital and Computer Crime affirmed that it detained Durov for involvement in cybercrime. Some of the charges leveled against him are that he provided what is referred to as “cryptology” service, which is believed to have been used for some unlawful purposes. French prosecutors said that Durov could be held in police custody for up to August 28, depending on the course of the investigation.
Elon Musk Seeks Clarity on Durov’s Arrest Amid Cybercrime Charges
The arrest has evoked various responses from some notable personalities in the technology sector. French President Emmanuel Macron mentioned Durov in his post, and Elon Musk, the chief of both Tesla and SpaceX companies, replied to Macron with a request to explain the factors that preceded the arrest of the man. Some other people within the cryptocurrency business have also worried and asked for more information about the case.
It is observed, and its consequences may affect international relations and the global tech community as a whole. While the investigation goes on, the arrest of such a strong-state personality will continue to trend and be topical both in French and international media.
