French President Emmanuel Macron has clarified that he did not invite the co-founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, to France, nor was he aware of Durov’s visit. While in Serbia for a diplomatic visit, Macron’s comments were in response to widespread criticism following Durov’s arrest. Though the French President insists the decision wasn’t politically motivated, the international community, notably crypto and tech sector insiders, beg to differ.
Durov’s current status is that of a charged individual by the French prosecutors, albeit free on a 5 million euro bail. The terms of his bail declare that he must remain in France and report to law enforcement weekly. Macron assures that the case will be handled through the “independent action of the French justice system.”
Following Durov’s detaining, Macron has been subjected to global criticism, with some equating France’s actions to the authoritarian regimes of the past. Gabor Gurbacs, ex-director of digital asset strategy at VanEck, questioned Macron’s denial of political motivation. Meanwhile, Helius Labs CEO Mert Mumtaz asked why similar accountability does not apply to Macron for failing to curb all crime in France. Mumtaz further criticized France’s handling of the Durov case, claiming it contradicts Macron’s steadfast commitment to freedom of expression.
The case has raised alarms about potential broader crackdowns on decentralized technology and free speech-oriented tech entrepreneurs, sending out ripples within the industry. This is demonstrated by Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski’s departure from Europe following threats allegedly received from French officials.