UAE Suspends $10 Billion Rafale Jet Deal Over Telegram Founder’s Arrest

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly suspended its $10 billion deal with France for the purchase of 80 Rafale fighter jets following the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov.

The suspension has raised concerns over the future of military and technical cooperation between the UAE and France.

Durov, a dual citizen of France and the UAE, was detained in France over the weekend as part of an investigation into his messaging platform Telegram’s failure to prevent illicit activities, including drug trafficking and the distribution of child pornography. Durov who is of Russian descent, also holds Russian and St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship.

The UAE’s reaction to Durov’s arrest has been swift and strong, with diplomatic tensions escalating.

The country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing that it is “closely following” Durov’s case and has “submitted a request to the French government to provide him with all consular services urgently.”

The suspension of the Rafale deal with French aerospace company Dassault, as reported by Avia.pro, raises the possibility of a complete halt in military-technical cooperation between the two countries.

The UAE has also sought consular access to Durov, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. In addition, Russia also has sought consular access to the Telegram founder.

As of Tuesday, Durov had not been formally charged. Reports suggest that he may remain in custody until Wednesday, when a judge will decide whether to press charges or release him.

This situation continues to unfold, with potential implications for international diplomatic and military relations.

Some reports say Durov was lured to France under the guise of a meeting with French President Macron. Others say his private jet made a refueling stop in the French capital, Paris.