Telegram founder Pavel Durov has been permitted to leave France temporarily, sources familiar with the case confirmed to AFP.
“Durov left France this morning,” one source stated, noting that his departure had been approved by the authorities. Another source indicated that an investigating judge had granted him permission to leave the country for “several weeks.” A third source reported that Durov was headed to Dubai.
When contacted by AFP, a Telegram spokesperson declined to comment but mentioned that the company would release a statement in due course.
According to a source close to the case, the investigating judge had authorized modifications to Durov’s supervision conditions several days prior, allowing his temporary departure.
The 40-year-old entrepreneur was dramatically detained at Le Bourget airport near Paris in August 2024 and subsequently charged with multiple violations linked to Telegram’s operations. As a result, he had been barred from leaving France.
Following intensive questioning, Durov was accused of failing to prevent extremist and terrorist content from circulating on the platform. He was later released on bail set at five million euros ($5.6 million).
Holding Russian, French, and United Arab Emirates passports, Durov initially condemned his arrest. However, in recent months, he has taken steps that appear to align with French authorities’ demands.
In January, while speaking with investigating magistrates, he reportedly acknowledged the gravity of the allegations against him, a source revealed.
