French President Claims Arrest of Controversial Social Media CEO ‘Is in No Way a Political Decision’
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the arrest of Pavel Durov, the CEO of a popular messaging app, is not a political act but a part of an independent investigation. Durov was detained at a Paris airport under accusations that his platform facilitated money laundering and drug trafficking. In his comments on social media, Macron emphasized that while France values freedom of expression, such freedoms must operate within a legal structure to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights. He rejected claims that the arrest was politically motivated and stated it was a judicial matter. Russian officials have expressed discontent over the arrest, alleging it reflects a Western double standard regarding freedom of speech. Durov’s representatives have not yet provided comments on the situation.
French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that the arrest in France of the CEO of the popular messaging app , Pavel Durov, was not a political move, but part of an independent investigation.
French media reported that Durov was detained at a Paris airport on Saturday on an arrest warrant alleging his platform has been used for money laundering, drug trafficking and other offenses.
In France’s first public comment on the arrest, Macron posted on the social media platform X that his country “is deeply committed” to freedom of expression, but “freedoms are upheld within a legal framework, both on social media and in real life, to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights.”
Denouncing what he called false information circulating about the arrest, he said it “is in no way a political decision. It is up to the judges to rule on the matter.”
Russian government officials have expressed outrage at Durov’s arrest, with some calling it politically driven and saying it showed the West’s double standard on freedom of speech.
Representatives for Durov, a dual citizen of France and Russia, could not be immediately reached for comment.
In a statement posted on its platform, said it abides by EU laws including the digital services act, and its moderation is “within industry standards and constantly improving.”
“It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform,” ’s post said. “Almost a billion users globally use as means of communication and as a source of vital information. We’re awaiting a prompt resolution of this situation. is with you all.”
was founded by Durov and his brother in the wake of the Russian government’s crackdown after mass pro-democracy protests rocked Moscow at the end of 2011 and 2012.
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