Pavel Durov, co-founder of Telegram, was detained at Le Bourget airport near Paris as part of a judicial inquiry involving twelve alleged criminal violations, including the distribution of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, fraud, and organized crime facilitation. An investigating judge has concluded his police custody and will present him in court for an initial appearance. Durov, a French citizen originally from Russia, faces backlash in Russia, with officials claiming the arrest is politically motivated. French President Emmanuel Macron stated the arrest is part of an independent investigation. Telegram released a statement asserting its compliance with EU laws and improving moderation practices. Durov holds citizenship in the UAE and St Kitts and Nevis, and the UAE Foreign Ministry is monitoring the case. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed hope for Durov's legal defense opportunities. Telegram, founded by Durov and his brother, has nearly a billion users and has faced criticism for its moderation policies.