FSB chief accuses Telegram founder of pursuing self-interest

The head of Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has accused Telegram founder Pavel Durov of pursuing self-serving interests that, he claims, facilitate criminal activity.

Alexander Bortnikov told the Russian state news agency that Durov’s actions are linked to a wide range of violations, including child exploitation, terrorism, and sabotage.

“This approach amounts to nothing less than condoning what is taking place,” Bortnikov said, warning that Telegram’s platform enables unlawful behaviour.

Earlier, FSB confirmed it is no longer negotiating with Telegram founder Pavel Durov. Bortnikov told the state news agency that previous talks “led to nothing positive.”

The announcement comes amid reports that Telegram’s service is being deliberately slowed in Russia. Earlier this month, the messaging platform faced potential fines of up to 64 million roubles for failing to remove prohibited content.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the platform is not complying with Russian law, though he stressed that authorities continue to maintain contact with Telegram’s administration.

Russia’s communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, is set to enforce a full nationwide ban on the messaging app Telegram from April 1, sources cited by BAZA report. The move will block access across mobile networks and fixed-line internet, mirroring previous restrictions on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

Telegram, founded in 2013 by Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov, is known for its privacy-focused messaging, voice calls, file sharing, and large public channels. The platform has over one billion users globally and is widely used for news sharing, particularly in regions with limited press freedom.

The service has faced legal pressure in Russia and other countries due to its encryption and refusal to provide government backdoors, with Durov emphasising user privacy as a core principle.

By Aghakazim Guliyev