The Justice Department has charged two employees of RT, the Kremlin's media outlet, with directing nearly $10 million to a Tennessee-based firm identified in court documents as “Company 1.” CNN has confirmed that Company 1 is Tenet Media, a platform for independent commentators described as focusing on Western political and cultural issues.

Prosecutors allege that the purpose of this operation was to promote pro-Russian narratives by disseminating content and news that supported Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and other figures favorable to Russian interests. The indictment highlights that Tenet Media's website lists right-wing commentators Benny Johnson and Tim Pool, both of whom have significant followings on YouTube and other social media.

Johnson and Pool have publicly denounced the allegations, asserting that they were unaware of any external influence on their content and that they have always maintained editorial control.

In response to these revelations, the Biden administration has implemented a broad set of measures to counteract Russian efforts to sway the 2024 US presidential election. This includes sanctions against 10 individuals and entities, and the seizure of 32 internet domains. According to US Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, Russian companies used fake profiles to spread false information, with the aim of supporting Trump or the Republican nominee. The indictment of the RT employees underscores the Biden administration's commitment to addressing foreign interference, following similar recent actions against alleged Iranian hacking attempts targeting both major US presidential campaigns.