A Woman Arrested in the U.S. on Charges of Secret Collaboration with the Russian Government

U.S. judicial authorities have arrested a Russian woman on charges of conducting covert operations for the Russian government by establishing connections with American politicians and conservative institutions. Prosecutors have accused 29-year-old Maria Butina of attempting to influence U.S. political entities, including the 'National Rifle Association,' a major organization and lobby promoting gun ownership. During her activities, Ms. Butina not only met with American lawmakers and election candidates but also participated in events supported by American lobbies, such as the 'National Prayer Breakfast.' The 'National Prayer Breakfast' is an annual event held in Washington, where senior officials, including the President, deliver speeches, and meetings and discussions take place among participants. Other charges against this Russian citizen include assisting in organizing a dinner called 'Friendship and Dialogue' between the U.S. and Russia in Washington and reporting it to a Russian government official in Moscow. The name of the Russian official has not been disclosed in court documents, but he has been described as 'a senior government official who was previously a member of the Federation Council of Russia and was later selected as a senior member of the Central Bank of that country.' This Russian official is believed to be Alexander Torshin, with whom Ms. Butina had close ties. Maria Butina is accused of acting in violation of the 'Foreign Agents Registration Act' in the United States. This law, enacted in 1938, requires foreign agents working to advance the interests of foreign governments 'around political and quasi-political issues' to disclose their relationship with the foreign government, activities, and finances. Despite the years since the law was enacted, it has resurfaced in discussions following allegations against Russia regarding interference in U.S. elections. It is still unclear whether the charges against Maria Butina are directly related to the investigations of Robert Mueller, the special counsel in the Russia case. The charges against this Russian citizen are being pursued by the U.S. Attorney's Office in Washington, D.C. Among those charged under the 'Foreign Agents Registration Act' is Paul Manafort, former campaign manager for Donald Trump. The charges against Maria Butina were announced just hours after a meeting between the Presidents of the U.S. and Russia in Finland.