US accuses RT of ‘covert’ intelligence activities, issues fresh sanctions
Al Jazeera
The US State Department says Russia’s RT network has ‘moved beyond being a media outlet’ and has cyber-capabilities.
The United States has issued new sanctions against Russia’s state media outlet RT, accusing the television network of taking part in covert “influence and intelligence operations” around the world and weapons procurement for the Russian military.
In a statement on Friday, the US State Department said RT — previously known as Russia Today — had “moved beyond being simply a media outlet and has been an entity with cyber capabilities”.
“It is also engaged in information operations, covert influence, and military procurement. These operations are targeting countries around the world, including in Europe, Africa, and North and South America.”
Washington also alleged that an online crowdfunding platform operating within RT and on social media provided “material support and weaponry” to Russian military units in Ukraine.
The arms include sniper rifles, body armour, drones and other equipment, the State Department said.
