Telegram founder Pavel Durov has officially regained his passport, marking the end of a high-profile legal battle with French authorities. His arrest on August 24, 2024, sparked global controversy, with free speech advocates and the TON Society condemning what they described as an assault on digital privacy.
Following the news of Durov’s regained freedom, The Open Network (TON) token surged 20%, climbing above $3.45. The rally reflects renewed confidence in Telegram’s role in decentralized communication and crypto integration.
A Battle for Free Speech and Privacy
Durov, a well-known proponent of free speech and digital privacy, co-founded Telegram, a messaging platform with close to 1 billion users. However, French authorities accused him of facilitating criminal activities, including drug trafficking and the distribution of illegal materials. Despite Durov’s insistence that he had always cooperated with authorities, he was arrested at Le Bourget airport in August 2024, detained, and forced to pay €5 million to secure his release.
Durov’s legal troubles have galvanized free speech activists, with the TON Society calling on the UN, EU, and Council of Europe to intervene. The group stated,
“Pavel’s unwavering commitment to freedom of speech and transparency, despite facing the most challenging of circumstances, is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing by your principles.”
Telegram and TON’s Future Amid Legal Scrutiny
While Telegram remains independent from the TON network, the messaging app has increasingly integrated TON into its services, fueling speculation about its long-term sustainability in the face of regulatory scrutiny.
The legal case had significant repercussions on TON’s market value. When Durov was arrested in August, the token tumbled in value, reflecting investor concerns over potential restrictions on Telegram. Now, with his passport returned and no further travel restrictions, the TON token has rebounded strongly, signaling renewed optimism among crypto investors.
Despite the resolution of Durov’s immediate legal troubles, questions remain about the regulatory future of privacy-focused platforms. Advocates warn that targeting decentralized messaging apps could set a dangerous precedent for online freedom, reinforcing concerns over government overreach in the digital space.
With Telegram continuing its rapid expansion, particularly in crypto gaming, which now boasts over 300 million players, the platform remains at the center of the debate on privacy, free speech, and digital finance.
