Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov's detention in France has raised questions due to his multiple citizenships, including those from Russia, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. Durov, known for creating Telegram as a platform promoting free speech, has faced allegations from Western governments that the app has been misused by various illicit groups.
His journey to acquiring multiple citizenships began over a decade ago, stemming from a dispute over control of VKontakte, a popular Russian social media website. Following this, Durov obtained residency in Dubai and a passport from Saint Kitts and Nevis, known for its appeal as a tax haven.
Living in Dubai since 2017, Durov's wealth has been estimated at $15.5 billion by Forbes. He was granted citizenship by the United Arab Emirates, a rare occurrence in a country where citizenship is typically difficult to obtain.
In 2021, Durov officially became a French citizen, a process shrouded in secrecy due to French privacy practices. He may have qualified for a special citizenship route for 'merited foreigners' based on his contributions to France's global influence and economic relations.
Despite his high-profile connections, including meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and UAE leaders, Durov's recent arrest in France has added to the mystery surrounding his legal troubles. The allegations against him include accusations related to child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, and organized crime transactions.
As the situation unfolds, details about Durov's complex web of citizenships and his interactions with various governments continue to intrigue observers, highlighting the intricate world of international relations and individual rights.
