September 5, 2024 at 09:21AM
The U.S. Department of Justice seized 32 internet domains used by a pro-Russian propaganda operation called Doppelganger, accusing companies of covertly spreading Russian government propaganda. The Treasury Department sanctioned 10 individuals and two entities. In conjunction, the DoJ announced the indictment of two RT employees for funding and disseminating videos to sow discord among Americans. The State Department has also instituted a new policy to restrict visa issuance. These actions signal a broader push to clamp down on Russian-backed disinformation operations and address Chinese influence operations ahead of the U.S. elections.
From the meeting notes, it is clear that the U.S. Department of Justice took significant actions to address foreign influence operations targeting the U.S. The actions included the seizure of 32 internet domains used for Russian propaganda by a pro-Russian group called Doppelganger. The domains mimicked legitimate news outlets to spread Russian government propaganda. The Treasury Department also sanctioned individuals and entities involved in influencing and undermining confidence in the electoral process. Additionally, the DoJ indicted two RT employees for financing a content creation firm to disseminate videos aiming to sow discord among Americans. Furthermore, the State Department instituted a new policy to restrict visa issuance to individuals acting on behalf of Kremlin-supported media organizations. These actions are part of a broader effort to counter foreign-backed disinformation operations, notably from Russia and China, ahead of the U.S. general election.