In a significant development that has intensified tensions between tech executives and European governments, French authorities have denied Telegram founder Pavel Durov permission to travel to the United States for business meetings with potential investors.

The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed on May 12 that Durov’s request was rejected “on the grounds that such a trip abroad did not appear imperative or justified,” according to reporting from POLITICO.

Legal Constraints Tighten Around Telegram Founder

Durov, who holds dual citizenship in France and the United Arab Emirates, has been under strict judicial supervision in France since his arrest at a French airport in August 2024. Following formal indictment in September on six charges related to alleged illegal activities conducted through his encrypted messaging platform, Durov’s movements have been severely restricted.

The tech entrepreneur is reportedly confined to Paris, staying at the luxurious Crillon hotel while navigating his ongoing legal battles. As part of his bail conditions, Durov must obtain official approval for any international travel—a restriction that has now directly impacted his business operations.

This isn’t the first time Durov has requested permission to leave France since his arrest. Previously, authorities had authorized him to visit Dubai for a period between March 15 and April 7, indicating that the rejection of his U.S. trip represents a potential hardening of the French position toward the embattled tech figure.

Escalating Tensions and Political Accusations

The relationship between Durov and French authorities has deteriorated significantly in recent days. In a particularly provocative move, Durov publicly accused the French government of election interference during Romania’s presidential election runoff. As reported by Meduza, he specifically named Nicolas Lerner, head of France’s foreign intelligence service, claiming he had been pressured to silence conservative voices on Telegram ahead of the Romanian vote.

French officials responded swiftly and categorically to these allegations, with France24 reporting that Paris “strongly refutes” these claims. This exchange has added another layer of complexity to an already contentious situation.

Broader Implications for Tech Governance

The case highlights growing tensions between technology platforms and European regulators. Durov’s legal troubles stem from allegations related to organized crime activities occurring on Telegram—a platform celebrated for its encrypted communications but criticized by some governments for potentially enabling illegal activities due to its privacy features.

European Conservative characterized the situation in stark terms, describing Durov as being “held hostage in France” as authorities prevent him from conducting his business affairs. This framing reflects the perspective of those who view the case as an overreach by government authorities against technology innovators.

The business implications for Telegram could be substantial. Being unable to meet with potential American investors could impact the company’s financial position and growth strategy at a critical time when the messaging platform faces increasing competition and regulatory scrutiny worldwide.

As this situation continues to unfold, it raises important questions about the balance between national security concerns, law enforcement priorities, and the freedom of technology executives to operate globally. The case may set precedents for how European authorities approach regulation of digital platforms and their leadership in an era of increasing concerns about online content and communications.