- Paper planes, representing Telegram’s logo, highlight strong support for Durov and the platform’s privacy stance
- Elon Musk reacted to the news, tweeting in support of his competitor #freepavel
August 25 2024 13:34:42 UTC– In response to reports of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov’s alleged arrest at a French airport, protesters in Moscow have taken to demonstrating outside the French Embassy, using a symbolic gesture that aligns closely with Telegram’s identity.
Large crowds gathered to “bombard” the embassy with paper planes—an emblem of the messaging platform.
The use of paper planes, which are central to Telegram’s branding, is seen as a creative form of protest against what some perceive as an unjust action against Durov. This act underscores the strong support Durov and Telegram enjoy, particularly among users in Russia, where the platform is widely used for its privacy and security features.
The protest highlights the deep connection many users feel with Telegram and its founder, who has often positioned the app as a defender of digital rights and privacy in the face of government scrutiny. As the situation develops, this outpouring of support suggests that any legal action against Durov or Telegram could prompt further public demonstrations.
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was reportedly arrested at a French airport upon disembarking from his private jet, according to sources cited by AFP and other French media outlets.
The reports state that Durov, the sole owner of Telegram and a Russian-born entrepreneur currently residing in Dubai, was detained by French authorities.
Elon Musk reacted to the news, tweeting in support of his competitor #freepavel
Durov, who manages the messaging app Telegram from Dubai, has yet to issue a formal response to these allegations. Telegram did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters regarding the incident. Meanwhile, the French Interior Ministry and police have declined to comment on the matter.
This development marks a significant moment for Durov, who has maintained a relatively low profile despite his platform’s substantial global user base. Telegram, known for its strong privacy features, has often been at the center of controversies, including clashes with various governments over encryption and user privacy.
As the story unfolds, the circumstances of Durov’s reported detention and the potential legal implications for him and Telegram remain unclear. Further updates are awaited as authorities and Telegram itself may provide additional information.