- Russia issued an international wanted notice for Telegram founder Pavel Durov, accusing him of complicity in terrorism for failing to remove channels used by Ukrainian intelligence and extremist organizations.
- The FSB claims Telegram facilitated terrorist attacks and cybercrime in Russia, leading to civilian casualties, including women and children.
- Durov, holding French and UAE passports, dismissed the case as politically motivated, citing Moscow's attempts to restrict Telegram access.
- Telegram is a major communication platform in Russia but has faced repeated government efforts to block or control it, including a ban from 2018 to 2020.
- Durov has a history of clashing with Russian authorities over internet freedom and previously faced legal issues in France regarding illegal content on Telegram.