Russia probes Telegram CEO Pavel Durov over terrorism links
Russian authorities have opened a criminal case against Telegram co-founder and CEO Pavel Durov, according to state media, alleging the platform facilitated terrorist activities. The official state publication Rossiyskaya Gazeta reported on Tuesday that the investigation is based on materials from the Federal Security Service (FSB). Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed the proceedings, stating the FSB is “carrying out its functions.”
The development follows increased scrutiny of Telegram in Russia after state media regulator Roskomnadzor tightened restrictions on the messenger service in early February. Telegram had not issued a public response by the time of publication.
Authorities cite noncompliance with content removal orders
The reported case stems from Telegram’s refusal to comply with Roskomnadzor’s directives to delete content linked to extremism and other illegal activities. According to the state-linked outlet Komsomolskaya Pravda, Telegram has not removed nearly 155,000 channels, chats, and bots flagged locally for unlawful or harmful content.
The largest categories cited include 104,093 channels accused of spreading false information, 10,598 promoting extremism, 4,168 justifying extremist activity, and 3,771 related to drugs.
Former Russian presidential internet adviser German Klimenko warned that the investigation could result in Telegram being designated an extremist organization, which could criminalize payments for Telegram Premium subscriptions and advertising on the platform.
Durov says pressure aims to shift users to state-backed messenger
Durov has previously argued that the measures are intended to drive users toward a new state-supported messaging app called MAX. He also said other countries, including Iran, have attempted comparable strategies without success. “Despite the ban, most Iranians still use Telegram and prefer it to surveilled apps,” Durov wrote on his Telegram channel on Feb. 10. “Restricting citizens’ freedom is never the right answer. Telegram stands for freedom of speech and privacy, no matter the pressure,” he added.
The Russian probe comes as Durov remains under examination abroad. He is the subject of an ongoing inquiry in France following his arrest in August 2024. French authorities lifted his travel ban in November 2025 after previously indicating he could face up to 10 years in prison.
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