Russian Authorities Investigate Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Over Terrorism Allegations

The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has opened an investigation into the actions of Pavel Durov, the founder of the Telegram messaging platform, in connection with a criminal case in Russia. The inquiry is reportedly being conducted under Article 205.1 of the Russian Criminal Code, which pertains to assisting terrorist activities, according to Rossiyskaya Gazeta. Telegram Linked to Extremist Activities Since 2022, Telegram has been cited as a key tool for intelligence operations by NATO countries and the Ukrainian government during the ongoing military conflict. Authorities report that over 153,000 crimes have been committed via the platform, including approximately 33,000 incidents related to sabotage, terrorism, and extremist activity. FSB officers have claimed to prevent 475 planned terrorist acts that were organized through Telegram. Legal Perspectives on the Case Lawyer Konstantin Erokhin told Lenta.ru that while the investigation could damage Durov's reputation, the chances of successful prosecution are slim. He explained that the FSB could theoretically summon Durov or Telegram employees for questioning, but it is highly unlikely they would comply. Erokhin suggested that the likely outcome would be a continuation of platform restrictions rather than criminal charges.