Telegram founder rejects censorship of right-wing content, criticizes France's intervention in the Romanian elections.

During the Romanian presidential election, Telegram founder Pavel Durov publicly stated that he rejected requests from a Western European country to censor conservative content. Although initially unnamed, he eventually pointed his finger at France, claiming that the country's intelligence agencies were attempting to manipulate election results by censoring Telegram content. This incident has once again sparked intense discussions about freedom of speech and international political intervention.

Durov rejects censorship request: will not restrict Romanian users' freedom.

In a post published on Telegram on May 18, Durov stated that he "categorically rejected" a request from a Western European government that sought to have Telegram block a political channel of right-wing conservatives in Romania. He emphasized, "Telegram will not restrict the freedom of Romanian users, nor will it block their political channels." This request came on the eve of the Romanian presidential election, raising concerns about democracy and electoral fairness.

France is implied to be the behind-the-scenes manipulator: Durov criticizes "defending democracy cannot rely on destroying democracy"

Although Durov did not explicitly state which country made the request for review in his initial statement, he used the "baguette" emoji, suggesting a reference to France. In his post, he wrote: "You cannot defend democracy by destroying it; nor can you combat election interference by interfering in elections. You either have free speech and fair elections, or you have nothing. And the people of Romania deserve both."

Although the French government stated that the accusation was "completely unfounded," Durov subsequently named on X, stating that it was the Director of the French General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), Nicolas Lerner, who personally made the request.

Private meeting exposed: Telegram founder accuses French intelligence agencies of pressure

According to Durov, he met with Lerner in Paris, where the latter requested him to ban conservative content on Telegram before the elections. Durov emphasized that Telegram has never interfered with freedom of speech during protests in Russia, Belarus, and Iran, stating, "We will not start doing this from Europe."

The results of the Romanian elections have been announced, and the French Prime Minister posted a message of congratulations but did not deny the manipulation allegations.

The results of the Romanian presidential election were announced on May 18, with the liberal Bucharest mayor and mathematician Nicusor Dan defeating the nationalist right-wing candidate George Simion, successfully being elected president.

French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron posted on X platform to congratulate Dan on his election, but did not directly deny the existence of election manipulation. He wrote: "Despite numerous attempts at manipulation, the people of Romania chose democracy, the rule of law, and the European Union tonight."

Durov was arrested in France last year, becoming a hero in the crypto community for his commitment to freedom of speech.

The conflict between Durov and the French government is not the first. Back in August 2024, he was arrested in France, accused of assisting Telegram in becoming a breeding ground for crimes such as child pornography and drug trafficking. This action was strongly condemned by the crypto community, with many believing it to be an infringement on personal freedom and digital privacy.

The next day, Durov was released on a bail of 5 million euros but had to accept judicial supervision. In March of this year, the court approved his short-term trip to Dubai, further sparking supporters' concern and support for his situation.

International politics and platform censorship are back in the spotlight: Is Telegram maintaining a neutral stance?

This incident highlights the subtle role that large communication platforms play in international elections and political manipulation. Durov has repeatedly emphasized that Telegram will uphold the principle of freedom of expression and will not cooperate with any government in political censorship. However, whether the platform can truly maintain neutrality in the long term, in the face of government pressure and potential legal liabilities, remains a significant challenge.

This article discusses Telegram founder's refusal to censor right-wing content and criticizes France's interference in the Romanian elections. First appeared in Chain News ABMedia.