The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is intensifying efforts to secure consular services for Pavel Durov, the Dubai-based founder of Telegram, following his arrest in France over alleged failures to curb criminal activity on the app.
The UAE’s foreign ministry confirmed that it is closely monitoring Durov’s case and has submitted a request to the French government to provide him with urgent consular assistance.
“The UAE is closely monitoring the case of its citizen Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, who was arrested by the French authorities at Paris–Le Bourget Airport,” the Gulf state’s foreign ministry stated.
“The UAE has submitted a request to the Government of the French Republic to urgently provide him with all necessary consular services,” it added.
Durov, a 39-year-old billionaire, was detained at Paris-Le Bourget Airport on Saturday and is accused of failing to prevent the spread of illegal content on Telegram. French authorities have extended his detention until Wednesday for further questioning.
Telegram has denied the accusations, stating that it complies with EU laws and its moderation is within industry standards. The company has emphasized that Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe.
Dubai-headquartered Telegram stated on Sunday that “Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe.”
“Telegram complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act—its moderation is within industry standards,” the company said.
“It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that Moscow has received no information from France about the reasons for Durov’s detention and is seeking clarification.
