[nine_k]

But they do charge users directly: https://telegram.org/faq_premium?setln=en

It's a typical freemium model. I'd subscribe if I were certain that my money won't be going to Russia.

[Mo3]

Are you implying Telegram is being run by the Russian government?

[ptnxlo]

That's not the only way money can end up in Russia. Having employees there is a simple one.