In a sweeping action aimed at curbing election interference, the Biden administration has seized control of 32 websites tied to a disinformation network allegedly run by Russian operatives. The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) announced that these sites were part of a larger Russian government-directed campaign, code-named “Doppelganger,” aimed at manipulating the outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized that “Russian government actors have engaged in a covert effort to interfere in and sway our nation’s electoral process.”
DoJ Alleges Putin-Directed Disinformation Campaign
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco warned that Russia continues to be the most significant foreign threat to U.S. elections. She revealed that the seized websites were being used to promote AI-generated false narratives under the direct orders of Russian President Vladimir Putin. While the DoJ was careful not to mention specific political parties or candidates by name, the investigation referenced a document called “The Good Old USA Project.” This document hinted at the campaign’s support for former President Donald Trump, referred to as “Candidate A,” while suggesting that Political Party B (the Democrats) was currently in power.
The Kremlin-backed campaign aimed to ensure a political outcome favorable to Russia, with Monaco adding that Russia’s disinformation tactics have become more sophisticated, leveraging AI and social media to sway public opinion in the U.S.
Russian Propaganda Tied to Ukraine Crisis
A detailed 277-page affidavit unsealed by the DoJ named Sergei Vladilenovich Kiriyenko, a high-ranking official in the Russian Presidential Executive Office, as a key figure behind the operation. The websites allegedly sought to influence U.S. voters by spreading propaganda, not only favoring pro-Trump views but also aimed at undermining support for Ukraine and advancing pro-Russian policies amid the ongoing conflict.
No Trump Campaign Involvement, DoJ Says
Despite the campaign’s pro-Trump bias, the DoJ stressed that there is no evidence to suggest that Trump or his 2024 campaign team were aware of the Russian disinformation effort. The operation, run under Putin’s directive, aimed to manipulate the 2024 U.S. presidential election by polarizing the electorate and amplifying divisive narratives.
Conclusion
As the U.S. approaches a pivotal election in 2024, this latest action from the Department of Justice highlights the persistent threat of foreign interference. The seizure of these 32 websites underscores the growing complexity of disinformation campaigns, particularly those fueled by foreign governments. In the ongoing battle to protect democratic processes, the U.S. government is making it clear that such meddling will not go unchecked.