France has lifted its travel ban on Pavel Durov

French authorities have completely lifted the travel ban on Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, despite the ongoing investigation into the messaging app, Bloomberg reports.

Detention History

Durov was detained in Paris in August 2024 and ordered to remain in France, facing preliminary charges related to the Telegram platform. In accordance with the November 10 decision, authorities also lifted the requirement to regularly report to a local police station. A source familiar with the situation confirmed this information to the publication.

Investigation Continues

According to the French prosecutor's office, Durov is accused of assisting the operation of a platform that allegedly facilitates illegal transactions. He currently faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $550,000 fine. Telegram and Durov himself have repeatedly denied these charges, emphasizing that the messaging app complies with industry standards and European Union law.

Criticism of French Authorities

Despite the ongoing investigation, Durov regularly criticizes the French government and President Emmanuel Macron personally for policies he considers repressive. "Emmanuel Macron is making the wrong decisions. I am very disappointed. France is becoming weaker," he said.

Pavel Durov's Opinion

In October, Durov also criticized the EU initiative Chat Control, calling it "dystopian" and calling for a fight against such measures. He noted that "Germany persecutes anyone who dares to criticize officials online. The UK imprisons thousands of people for their tweets." France is conducting criminal investigations against those who defend freedom and privacy."

Thus, lifting the travel ban on Pavel Durov opens new opportunities for his activities, but questions related to the investigation remain relevant.