Pavel Durov, the founder of the messaging app Telegram, has revealed that he intends to allocate his substantial wealth, which he estimates at around $13.9 billion, to over 100 children conceived through natural or sperm donations.
In an interview with French magazine Le Point, Durov expressed that he sees no distinction between the six children he has fathered in relationships and the numerous others resulting from his sperm donations. He stated, “They are all my children and they’ll all have the same rights! I don’t want them to tear each other apart after I’m gone.”
He mentioned that a clinic he began using to donate sperm for a friend 15 years ago has reported that over 100 babies were conceived across 12 countries. Despite his financial estimates, industry experts suggest these figures are largely theoretical when it comes to Telegram’s valuation.
Durov clarified that, while he does not directly sell Telegram, his actual liquid assets are significantly lower than reported and primarily stem from a 2013 investment in Bitcoin. He also shared that his will includes a provision preventing his children from accessing his property until they are 30 years old. “I want them to live like normal people, learn trust in themselves, and create rather than rely on a bank account,” he explained.
Regarding his motivations for drafting the will, Durov remarked on the risks associated with his work, emphasizing that advocating for freedom can make one enemies, including within powerful governments. He expressed a desire to safeguard both his children and the integrity of Telegram. “I want to stay true to the values I uphold,” he added.
This development comes months after Durov was detained and charged by French authorities for allegedly failing to assist in investigations into criminal activities occurring on messaging platforms. He has faced serious accusations related to the distribution of harmful content and money laundering, which he has vehemently denied, labeling the situation as “absurd.” “Nothing has been proven to indicate my guilt,” Durov stated.
Telegram, in response to the arrest, has committed to improving its moderation practices in line with European Union laws and has stated that it will provide user data to authorities when warranted.
