UAE Pursues Legal Aid for Telegram CEO Amid French Investigation

• The UAE has requested France to provide Pavel Durov with legal services, emphasizing its commitment to protecting citizens abroad.
• Durov faces a French investigation into cybercrime, financial crime, and other offenses, with detention extended until August 28.
• French President Macron stated Durov’s detention is not politically motivated, while Russian officials criticize it as a double standard on free speech.

The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested that Pavel Durov, telegram CEO, receive all necessary legal services from the French government as soon as possible. According to an official statement, the UAE is committed to protecting the welfare of its citizens, which is demonstrated by this request. 

Notably, the statement stressed that the UAE’s top priorities are providing comprehensive care and safeguarding its citizens. As a result, the UAE Ministry stated that it is keeping a careful eye on Durov’s situation and has taken steps to guarantee he gets the necessary consular support.

French Investigation Expands to Include Multiple Allegations

On July 8, 2024, there was a start of a judicial investigation connected to Durov. Twelve criminal offenses are alleged in the investigation. These crimes include financial crime, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, cybercrime, and technological regulation violations.

 In addition, while the investigation is ongoing, Durov’s detention order has been extended by the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office. He has not been officially charged with anything as of yet.

Notably, the Paris Judicial Court stated that the accusations being investigated include money laundering for a criminal organization, operating cryptographic services without the required certification, and conspiring to possess illegal content. The investigation is being handled by the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office Combating Cybercrime Unit, and Durov is anticipated to stay in custody until August 28.

Macron’s Position and International Reactions

Consequently, French President Emmanuel Macron has clarified that the detention of Durov is a result of an independent legal investigation and is not being done for political reasons in response to the news. Macron highlighted France’s commitment to preserving freedom of speech, emphasizing that these rights must coexist with a legal framework that upholds the rights of the people. As a result, this stance represents France’s dedication to striking a balance between personal liberties and legal requirements.

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However, Russian authorities have denounced Durov’s arrest as being driven by politics. They contend that the arrest exemplifies the discriminatory practices of the West with regard to free speech. 

Furthermore, Durov’s startup, Telegram, has defended its methods. Telegram notes that Durov routinely travels throughout Europe and claims to be in compliance with EU laws. The disparate reactions from around the world draw attention to the complexity of Durov’s case as well as its wider ramifications for legal procedures and diplomatic ties in the context of international cybersecurity and individual liberties.