Telegram Founder Durov Slams Russia’s Internet Censorship as a Boon for U.S. Spying
themoscowtimes.com Jun 6, 2026

Telegram Founder Durov Slams Russia’s Internet Censorship as a Boon for U.S. Spying

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, criticized Russia's internet censorship and domestic tech policies, stating they play into U.S. cyber espionage. Durov argued that censorship and internet blocks have pushed Russia away from digital sovereignty, its goal to isolate web infrastructure and reduce reliance on foreign technology. He claimed that domestic and foreign apps on iOS and Android are exposed to U.S. surveillance and censorship. Durov also criticized Russian authorities for triggering a brain drain among tech workers and accused them of mass surveillance and censorship. Telegram has become difficult to use in Russia without a VPN.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · Russia's internet censorship undermines its own digital sovereignty, making it more vulnerable to external surveillance.
  • · Durov's criticism highlights the flaws in Russia's approach to achieving technological independence.