Telegram literally gives Russia the middle finger after founder Pavel Durov is charged with aiding terrorism

Russia has charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with aiding terrorism over claims Telegram did not remove channels and bots used by Ukrainian operatives.

Authorities placed Durov on an international wanted list, deepening legal pressure on him and on the messaging platform.

Telegram responded on X with a taunting image of Durov giving the middle finger.

The case adds to growing scrutiny of Telegram in Russia, alongside an ongoing French investigation involving Durov.