Pavel Durov, the Russian tech entrepreneur behind VKontakte (VK) and Telegram, built VK into Russia’s largest social media platform. However, his refusal to comply with Kremlin demands during the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests led to his departure from Russia, citing the country’s incompatibility with internet freedom.
Fast forward to 2024: Durov has been arrested in France on charges of cybercrime, drug trafficking, and facilitating illegal activities via Telegram, a platform the Russian military relies on to conduct its military operations and war against Ukraine.
In this episode of HWAG’s podcast, our analysts discuss:
Who stands to gain from Durov’s arrest?
How does Putin benefit, if at all?
And is it fair to compare Durov’s responsibility for all operations on Telegram to Macron’s responsibility for the whole of France?
Join us as we explore these questions.