Telegram Surges Towards 1 Billion Users: CEO Pavel Durov

Summary

In a rare interview with U.S. journalist Tucker Carlson, Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, shared insights into the app’s exponential growth, likening it to a “forest fire” as it approaches 1 billion monthly active users.

Telegram Surges Towards 1 Billion Users: CEO Pavel Durov

In the interview, Durov emphasized Telegram’s commitment to remaining a “neutral platform” amidst geopolitical tensions, distancing it from the realm of politics. Having fled Russia in 2014 due to government interference, Durov aims to maintain Telegram’s independence.

With over 900 million active users, Telegram’s main competitor, WhatsApp, boasts over 2 billion monthly active users. Speculations arise about Telegram’s potential U.S. listing post-profitability, as reported by the Financial Times in March.

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Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Telegram has emerged as a critical tool for disseminating unfiltered information about the war. Government officials, media outlets, and public figures from both nations utilize the platform to communicate directly with citizens.

While praised for its role in facilitating communication, Telegram faces criticism for its potential to spread misinformation and manipulate public opinion. Concerns have led to proposed legislation for stricter regulation of social networks, including Telegram, in Ukraine.

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The Kremlin has urged Durov to exercise caution following allegations that Telegram was used to recruit individuals involved in an attack outside Moscow. As Telegram continues to grow, its influence in global communication and information dissemination remains under scrutiny.