Title: US Charges and Sanctions Russian State Media Executives for Election Interference
The US government has taken decisive action against Russian state media executives, accusing Moscow of a widespread campaign to interfere with the presidential election. The justice, state, and treasury departments coordinated actions to counter the alleged operations, including charging two Moscow-based managers of RT for promoting pro-Russia propaganda to US audiences.
Attorney General Merrick Garland revealed that RT paid a Tennessee firm $10m to disseminate content with hidden Russian government messaging. The Biden administration responded by sanctioning individuals involved and restricting visas for employees of Kremlin-backed media outlets. Additionally, 32 internet domain names used to promote false narratives and influence US voters were seized.
US officials warned of growing interference efforts by foreign adversaries, citing a breach by Iranian hackers in Donald Trump’s campaign. Researchers also uncovered Chinese influence operations on social media. The US Cybersecurity Agency director emphasized the need to prevent foreign adversaries from undermining American democracy.
This latest move follows Russia’s previous interference in 2016, highlighting the ongoing battle to protect the integrity of US elections.
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