Telegram CEO Pavel Durov clarifies funding independence: new bonds have nothing to do with Russian capital

Telegram founder Pavel Durov recently spoke out on social channels, addressing and debunking multiple false rumors circulating in the market. The tech entrepreneur emphasized that the company’s financing channels are completely isolated from geopolitical risks, and recent large-scale financing activities have fully demonstrated this.

New Financing Rounds Exclude Russian Participation

According to Pavel Durov, the $1.7 billion bond financing recently completed by Telegram involved investors with no Russian capital. This financing round was substantial, with participating institutions from around the world, reflecting the international market’s recognition of Telegram’s prospects.

Historical Debt Has Been Properly Settled

In response to concerns about Russia’s old bonds, Pavel Durov stated that the issue is not as serious as imagined. Bonds issued in 2021 have largely completed repayment processes, with no unresolved issues. Even if assets are frozen, it has nothing to do with the company’s normal operational decision-making.

Clear Equity Structure, Bondholders Have No Decision-Making Power

Pavel Durov emphasized a key point: bondholders are fundamentally creditors, not equity holders, and have no say in the company’s strategic decisions. Telegram’s equity structure is very clear—he himself is the sole shareholder, holding all decision-making power. This concentrated ownership structure ensures the company’s operational independence and strategic coherence.

Earlier reports suggested that approximately $500 million of Telegram’s Russian bonds could face freezing due to Western sanctions, but based on Pavel Durov’s latest response, this asset dilemma does not pose a substantial threat to the company’s core business.