French President Emmanuel Macron commented on the arrest of Pavel Durov. On August 24, the creator of Telegram was detained at Le Bourget airport in Paris. The reason was his refusal to cooperate with intelligence services on financial and cybercrime issues.
Macron's statement appeared on the social network X (Twitter). The country's leader announced that Pavel Durov's arrest was not a political decision and that the country is committed to freedom of speech.
I have seen false information regarding France following the arrest of Pavel Durov.
France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so.
In a state governed by the rule of law, freedoms are upheld within a legal framework, both on social media and in real life, to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights.
It is up to the judiciary, in full independence, to enforce the law.
The arrest of the president of Telegram on French soil took place as part of an ongoing judicial investigation. It is in no way a political decision. It is up to the judges to rule on the matter.
Macron's address sparked heated discussions on social networks. Many users accused the politician of lying and called for Durov's release.
Earlier it was reported that Durov could face up to 20 years in prison. On August 26, the businessman's detention was extended.