Justice Department Takes Action Against Russian Influence
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has unsealed two indictments charging Dimitri Simes, 76, and Anastasia Simes, 55, both from Huntly, Virginia, and Russia, with schemes to violate U.S. sanctions.
Violating U.S. Sanctions
Dimitri and Anastasia Simes are accused of helping Channel One Russia, a state-owned Russian TV station, to break U.S. sanctions. These sanctions were put in place by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on May 8, 2022. The sanctions aim to stop Channel One Russia from acting on behalf of the Russian government.
How They Broke the Law
From June 2022 to now, Dimitri and Anastasia Simes allegedly violated the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). They provided services to Channel One Russia, such as working as a presenter and producer. In return, they received over $1 million, a personal car and driver, an apartment stipend in Moscow, and a team of 10 employees. They also engaged in money laundering to hide the proceeds of their illegal activities.
Current Status
It appears that Dimitri and Anastasia Simes are currently in Russia. The FBI recently raided their Virginia home and seized several boxes of documents.
Broader Context: Russian Propaganda
The Simes indictments come shortly after the DOJ revealed that Russia has been paying millions to right-wing U.S. pundits to spread Russian propaganda. This is part of a larger effort by Russia to interfere with our elections in 2024.
New Sanctions Announced
According to Al-Jazeera, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced new sanctions against various Russian individuals and entities. These actions are aimed at preventing Russian influence in the upcoming November 2024 presidential election.
Details of the New Actions
- Two employees of Russian state media, Russia Today (RT), were indicted.
- Dozens of internet domains used for “malign influence campaigns” were seized.
- A new visa restriction policy was introduced to limit foreign influence.
Sorry, Poot-Poot, but we aren’t going to let you mess with our elections again. Buh-bye!
For more information, visit the Department of Justice website or read the full article on Al-Jazeera.
FAQs on Dimitri Simes Indictment
Dimitri Simes, a former adviser to Donald Trump, has been indicted for U.S. sanctions violations and money laundering. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
1. Who is Dimitri Simes?
Dimitri Simes is a Russian-American political consultant and former adviser to Donald Trump.
2. What is Dimitri Simes accused of?
Dimitri Simes is accused of violating U.S. sanctions and money laundering.
3. What U.S. sanctions is Dimitri Simes accused of violating?
The specific sanctions violations are not detailed in the provided information, but it generally involves dealings with entities or individuals under U.S. economic restrictions.
4. What is money laundering, and how does it relate to Dimitri Simes’ case?
Money laundering involves concealing the origins of illegally obtained money to make it appear legitimate. In Dimitri Simes’ case, it is alleged that he engaged in activities to hide the source of funds that may have been obtained illegally.
5. What are the potential penalties for violating U.S. sanctions and money laundering?
The penalties for violating U.S. sanctions can include fines and imprisonment, while money laundering charges can also result in significant fines and imprisonment. The exact penalties will depend on the severity of the offenses and any mitigating or aggravating factors.
6. How did the investigation into Dimitri Simes begin?
The exact details of how the investigation began are not provided in the given information, but it is likely that it started with some form of tip or evidence suggesting illegal activities.
7. What role did Dimitri Simes play in the Trump administration?
Dimitri Simes served as an adviser to Donald Trump, although specific details about his role or responsibilities are not provided in the given information.
8. Is Dimitri Simes currently in custody or under house arrest?
The current status of Dimitri Simes (whether he is in custody or under house arrest) is not specified in the provided information.
9. How might this indictment impact Dimitri Simes’ future career prospects?
The indictment could significantly impact Dimitri Simes’ future career prospects due to the serious nature of the charges and potential public perception of his involvement in illegal activities.
10. Where can I find more information about Dimitri Simes’ indictment?
You can find more information about Dimitri Simes’ indictment on reputable news sources such as Daily Kos or other legal and political news outlets.
