Pavel Durov gave a candid interview to Tucker Carlson

Telegram creator Pavel Durov, in an interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson, made a number of frank statements concerning both his personal philosophy and recent events related to his detention in France. During the conversation, Durov spoke about his almost complete rejection of the smartphone, distrust of data control mechanisms and the lack of transparency of the accusations made against him by the European authorities.

Durov on detention: charges remain unclear

The key episode of the interview was the discussion of the incident with the detention of a businessman in France. According to Durov, he has not yet received a clear explanation of the reasons for his arrest. The French side, according to the entrepreneur, expressed concern about the lack of Telegram's response to court requests. However, according to him, the company has not received any official requests from France.

Later, charges of complicity in illegal activities were brought, which Durov called "absurd", comparing them to the fact that the head of state was arrested for the actions of individual citizens of the country. He also stressed that France did not require him to have access to Telegram encryption keys — since, as Durov noted, "such keys technically do not exist."

Telegram remains ad-free

Durov confirmed that Telegram continues to be successfully monetized-mainly through paid subscriptions and premium features, without resorting to the use of personal data of users. He assured that the company does not transfer information to third parties and does not use it for targeted advertising, except in cases stipulated by law.

Smartphone minimum — maximum control

Durov paid special attention to the issues of digital hygiene in the interview. He admitted that he almost never uses a smartphone, as he considers it a source of distraction and a potential threat to privacy. According to the founder of Telegram, he picks up the phone no more than twice a week, solely for testing new features in the app.

"I prefer to use a laptop or iPad. The smartphone disrupts concentration and creates the illusion of constant accessibility, " Durov said.

Context and philosophy

Pavel Durov's speech highlights his principled position on digital privacy, data sovereignty, and minimalism in personal life. Against the backdrop of growing global interest in cybersecurity and digital ethics, his statements resonate with audiences concerned about over-reliance on technology.

The interview with Carlson was one of the rare public appearances of the Telegram founder, shedding light on his views, practices and conflict episodes, including with the European authorities.