Russia Investigates Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Over Terrorism Facilitation Allegations

Russian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov, accusing him of facilitating terrorist activities, according to state-run media citing the Federal Security Service (FSB). The Kremlin alleges Telegram has repeatedly violated laws by hosting extremist content and being used by Western and Ukrainian intelligence. Telegram and Durov have denied these claims. Russia has imposed restrictions on Telegram and is promoting a state-backed messaging app, MAX, amid efforts to tighten internet control.