Russia’s Election Interference Tactics Become More Sophisticated, US Warns
A U.S. intelligence official warned that Russia’s interference in the U.S. election has become more sophisticated than in the past, according to the Justice Department’s indictment this week. The official described Russia’s tactics as using artificial intelligence (AI) and “influence-renting” firms to target so-called swing states in the United States and escalate a divisive strategy.
The Biden administration disclosed indictments against two Russians accused of laundering $10 million for a secret election interference campaign supporting former President Donald Trump. The official added that Russia also operates other operational assets and that the U.S. government is conducting a comprehensive response to them.
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) said in its latest report on election security released on the 6th that ”Russia is amplifying divisive rhetoric consistent with Moscow’s broader foreign policy goals of weakening the United States, undermining Washington’s support for Ukraine, and seeking to influence the outcome of the election.”
President Putin expressed his support for Vice President Harris, saying she has a good smile, while attending the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) held in Vladivostok, Russia the previous day. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said regarding President Putin’s statement supporting Vice President Harris, “Everyone will really enjoy Vice President Harris’ smile.”
U.S. authorities have stepped up scrutiny of election security following signs of interference by foreign powers including Russia, Iran, and China in the 2016 and 2020 elections. The U.S. government has taken steps such as closer cooperation between agencies, public criticism of the activities of state-sponsored groups, and prosecution of those involved.
An indictment unsealed this week alleges that Russia used popular right-wing social media influencers in the United States to convey messages to Americans that promoted Moscow’s interests.
U.S. intelligence officials warned in July that Russia and Iran would seek to influence the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and in August they said Iran was behind recent hacking of the Trump campaign. It also said it was monitoring the possibility that Chinese actors might attempt to interfere in elections that could threaten its interests.
