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"They need to monetize."

Sigh.

Charge users directly or GTFO.

Seriously. If the product is "very secure messaging," then come right out and say "very secure messaging costs money, pay up."

Doing anything -- ANYTHING else lets me know they're not serious about the mission.

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

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

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