The Biden administration was preparing on Wednesday to accusing Russia of disinformation campaigns aimed at the presidential election, according to three people familiar with the matter.
Intelligence agencies have previously accused Russia of using disinformation to try to interfere in the election. But Attorney General Merrick Garland’s announcement is expected to Please indicate the depth of concerns of the United States and point out legal actions against those suspected of being involved.
The people who disclosed the announcement spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the matter was not public. One of the people said the announcement will involve, in part, an accusation of using Russian state media to spread disinformation and propaganda.
Garland and other law enforcement leaders are expected to speak briefly at the opening of a meeting of the Justice Department’s election threats task force.
In a speech last month, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco said Russia was the main threat to the election.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and “his representatives are using techniques increasingly sophisticated in their interference operations. Are targeting specific voter demographics and voters in swing states in an effort to manipulate the results of the presidential and congressional elections,” he said.
“They intend to co-opt unwitting Americans on social media for push narratives that promote Russian interests“.
A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment.
CNN first reported the long-awaited announcement.
