Telegram founder Pavel Durov has alleged that French intelligence sought to censor opposition channels during Moldova's 2024 presidential elections, according to statements he posted on Sunday. Durov claimed that while he was detained in Paris approximately a year ago due to legal issues, French intelligence contacted him through an intermediary, requesting the removal of specific Telegram channels ahead of the vote.
Durov stated that after Telegram removed some channels that violated its rules, the intermediary informed him that French intelligence would favorably influence the judge overseeing his August arrest if he cooperated further. However, when provided with a second list of channels that were fully compliant with Telegram's rules but voiced political positions disliked by the French and Moldovan governments, Durov refused, emphasizing, "Telegram is committed to freedom of speech and will not remove content for political reasons."
These allegations emerge as Moldova's pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity, backed by President Maia Sandu, leads in a new parliamentary election, with over 50% of votes counted as of Sunday. Both elections have been marked by claims of Russian interference, with Sandu warning of massive Russian intervention in the democratic process. Pro-Russian opposition leader Igor Dodon has called for protests and plans to annul the vote.
The dispute highlights broader state pressure on digital privacy platforms, including crypto networks. Legal expert Alex Chandra of IGNOS Law Alliance noted, "Both communications platforms and crypto networks face parallel tactics of state interference," referencing recent convictions of Tornado Cash developer Roman Storm and Samourai Wallet founders. Durov remains under judicial supervision in France, required to report every 14 days with no appeal date in sight. Toncoin (TON), closely tied to Telegram, saw its price drop to $2.71, down 67% from its all-time high of $8.25 following Durov's detention.
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