Russia’s Federal Security Service said Wednesday it plans to place Telegram founder Pavel Durov on an international wanted list over alleged failure to close channels used by Ukrainian operatives to recruit Russians for sabotage.
The FSB accused Durov of ignoring repeated reports about criminal activity on the messaging platform, particularly a channel disguised as a dating service.
According to the agency, Ukrainian special services allegedly used the channel to lure mostly young Russian users by posing as women seeking romantic relationships and requesting small gifts. Victims were later contacted by individuals posing as Russian law enforcement and pressured into carrying out acts including arson and money-laundering courier roles.
The FSB claimed at least 46 Russian citizens aged between 12 and 22 were recruited through the scheme, which it said began in July 2025. Adult suspects face charges ranging from terrorism and sabotage to assaulting law enforcement officers.
The agency further alleged that a linked matchmaking chatbot has more than 13 million monthly users and that Telegram allowed it to continue operating despite multiple complaints. Russia’s media regulator Roskomnadzor had earlier flagged the channel in 2025.
The FSB has not disclosed when formal international arrest procedures would begin. Telegram has not yet publicly responded to the allegations.
The move adds to existing legal pressure on the Dubai-based billionaire, who has previously faced accusations from French authorities over criminal activity allegedly facilitated through the platform. Durov has rejected those claims, saying French officials sought to pressure him into censoring political content.
