Billionaire Telegram CEO Pavel Durov charged: Everything you need to know

In this Sky News Digital Originals special, we delve into the arrest of Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder of Telegram, and its implications for free speech and international law.

On August 25, Durov was detained in France amid accusations of failing to cooperate with investigations into criminal activities allegedly facilitated via his messaging app.

This dramatic event has ignited fierce debates globally, some view it as a necessary crackdown on tech platforms that shield criminal behaviour, while others argue it threatens the very essence of free expression.

As we explore Durov’s rise from a tech prodigy in Russia to a major player in global communication, we'll examine the complex interplay between privacy, security, and state interests.

Telegram’s role in both aiding and disrupting critical communications, from Ukrainian air raid alerts to alleged Russian disinformation campaigns, underscores the app's controversial impact.

With Durov’s arrest eliciting strong reactions from supporters and critics alike, including notable figures like Elon Musk, the outcome of this case could reshape the future of digital privacy and regulatory oversight.

[lenasamsonova]

Durov had to leave Russia as he had refused to hand in the code encription of VK to the Russian government, who wanted to track Ukranian opposition. As a result the Russian authorities deprived him of his company and made him go .The vdeo mentions the fact that VK was Russian facebook, more advanced and effective though, however the journalists never say one word about it, gloating over his arrest. truth manipulators!!!

[stevearcus]

The French insulted the last supper at the olympics, now they have arrested the leader of free speech. No prizes guessing what level of marxism this is leading to. All social media companies not in the pocket of their government need to support platform, as they might be next.

[vivianoosthuizen]

The thoughts that came up in my mind was it’s crazy because that would be like arresting the postmaster for a letter which was delivered.

[johnwalsh]

No they're very angry at telegram because they couldn't control him

[Agromanus]

I will unsubscribe if I ever have to watch Robert Potter again.

[aftonline]

There's a reason why Durov left Russia and established his base in the UAE. He was seen as a threat by the Russian authorities. Yes, the Russians find his free platform useful, as anyone with access to the internet can use it, but don't make the mistake of thinking Durov is in Putin's pocket. He left Russia precisely because he values free speech. He made the mistake of letting his guard down once, and now he will pay for it with his freedom. Telegram may or may not survive, but like Julian Assange, Pavel Durov will not see the light of day for a long time unless he cuts some kind of deal with western authorities.

[Samayil_]

He wont hand over a backdoor to the government.

[crusaderchess]

this whole video is nonsense after the le pen part

[AlecMedina-dv]

Label as terrorists they can do whatever they want with u

[secretwatcher]

Anyone that supports free speech in this climate is in huge danger of being accused of corruption.

[lxlx]

Smart guy... Need to be: "FREE"...

[crusaderchess]

8:00 your own commentary around this point is disinfo.

[JsckSzx]

everything you need to know from sky or others? always means everything they want you to think about the topic

[crusaderchess]

Malcom turnbull used encrypted chats but its okay because he was a lefty

[nirajshrestha]

durov left Russia to get freedom, freedom of speech and privacy and now he gets this from france.

[johndownard]

I think I love Tucker's reactions the most. Like he even understands intellectual topics.

[PresidentWORLD-ho]

Good Luck Pavel! *Welcome back 🔙 in The USSR! !!! LENINS IDEAS 💡 WINS PEOPLE'S WORLD'S WIN DEMOCRACY & REPUBLICA People's OF THE WORLD!!!*
Pasha We help You & Team Telegram!

[SynthwaveMusicChannel]

He is probably an anarchist ( and during our times is difficult for people understand the anarchism meaning and how beautiful is anarchism) .

[jefffeix]

Freedom of speech DOES NOT cover CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES. That's just STUPID.

[COSMICCANDYSTAR]

If Candace Owens is canceled...we canceled you. You just don't want truth, intellectual debates or open free discussions.