- Telegram CEO Pavel Durov regains his passport and departs France for Dubai.
- TON cryptocurrency surges 20% following the announcement.
- Durov faces allegations of facilitating illegal activities on Telegram.
Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, has been granted temporary travel permission by French authorities, allowing him to leave France amid an ongoing criminal investigation.
Following the announcement of Durov’s travel clearance, Toncoin (TON), the cryptocurrency linked to Telegram, saw a 20% spike, reaching $3.50. The TON Foundation celebrated the decision, emphasizing its commitment to digital privacy and free speech.
TON Surges 20% as Pavel Durov Gains Freedom to Travel
French authorities have temporarily lifted travel restrictions on Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, allowing him to leave the country despite an ongoing investigation. He reportedly departed for Dubai after an investigating judge approved his request. The move has been seen as a significant relief for Durov, who has long positioned Telegram as a champion of free speech and privacy.
The case against Durov involves serious allegations, including claims that Telegram has been used for illicit activities. French prosecutors argue that the platform has failed to cooperate in addressing these issues. In response, Telegram has bolstered its moderation efforts, hiring hundreds of contractors to monitor and remove illegal content.
Toncoin, the native cryptocurrency of Telegram’s ecosystem, saw a sharp price surge following the news of Durov’s regained travel freedom. Crypto analysts suggest this reflects investor confidence in Telegram’s continued growth and its deepening ties to blockchain technology. The company has heavily relied on crypto-based revenue streams, making its financial health closely linked to digital asset performance.
Despite legal pressures, Telegram remains one of the largest messaging platforms globally, with nearly a billion users. In 2024, the company achieved profitability for the first time, surpassing $1 billion in revenue. Its premium subscription model has also seen significant growth, with users willing to pay for enhanced features and security.
Pavel Durov’s regained travel freedom is a crucial moment for Telegram and the broader discussion on digital privacy. While the legal battle continues, the company’s financial and crypto-driven momentum remains strong.
“Freedom of speech is the cornerstone of a free society. Without it, democracy is meaningless.” — Ai Weiwei
