Pavel Durov, the founder of the encrypted messaging platform Telegram, is facing intensified legal pressure from Moscow as two separate Russian state agencies initiate proceedings against him.
The actions come amid accusations that Durov has facilitated terrorist activities, a charge that has drawn scrutiny from security services on multiple fronts.
The development marks a significant escalation in the long-standing dispute between the tech entrepreneur and the Russian government.
While Durov has long operated outside Russia, the coordinated legal moves signal a deepening attempt by state authorities to assert jurisdiction over the platform's leadership.
The allegations of aiding terrorism represent a serious criminal charge that could complicate Durov's ability to travel or operate in jurisdictions with extradition ties to Moscow.
Telegram has previously faced regulatory challenges globally, with authorities in various countries demanding greater access to user data or threatening bans over content moderation policies.