Tulsi Gabbard, President Donald Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, faced bipartisan criticism during her confirmation hearing. Concerns were raised over her past comments sympathetic to Russia, support for Edward Snowden, and opposition to surveillance programs. Gabbard criticized U.S. intelligence failures, vowing to end politicization and protect whistleblowers. Despite her military background, critics questioned her lack of intelligence experience and feared further politicization under Trump’s second term. Her nomination, announced in November, shocked national security officials. The hearing coincided with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial hearing as Trump’s health agency pick, amid accusations of anti-vaccine views.
Durov was scheduled to appear in court on Sunday, where he faces potential charges that could lead to a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Telegram has yet to comment on the arrest, while Russia's embassy in France is reportedly taking steps to address the situation.