Vindman says Musk should be 'nervous' after Telegram CEO was arrested: 'Free speech absolutists weirdos'
SUMMARY
Retired Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman warned Elon Musk after Telegram CEO Pavel Durov's arrest in France, suggesting Musk could face similar scrutiny. Durov was arrested for allegedly failing to control criminal activity on Telegram, a messaging app used by over 900 million people. Vindman, a key figure in the impeachment trial of former President Trump, stated; “There’s a growing intolerance for platforming disinfo & malign influence & a growing appetite for accountability. Musk should be nervous." Musk criticized Durov’s arrest on X, labeling it a sign of "dangerous times" and advocating for free speech. Vindman’s comments, which were met with backlash, criticized "free speech absolutists" and suggested increased enforcement against misinformation is likely. Prominent figures like RFK Jr. and Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski also criticized the arrest as an attack on free speech.
