DOJ claims Russia funded US media tied to right-wing social media stars

U.S. prosecutors have indicted two Russian nationals, Kostiantyn Kalashnikov and Elena Afanasyeva, for allegedly laundering millions of dollars to support right-wing influencers pushing pro-Kremlin narratives through an American media company, Tenet Media.

The indictment claims they funneled $10 million through shell companies to Tenet, which publishes videos on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The content often reflects Russian interests in creating U.S. divisions.

The Justice Department emphasizes that propaganda efforts will not be tolerated, stating, "our investigation into this matter remains ongoing." Influencers tied to Tenet state they were unaware of the funding source and that they "were the victims."