Former Trump adviser and wife charged with violating sanctions and money laundering for Russian TV work.
At a Glance
- Dimitri Simes and wife Anastasia charged for working with sanctioned Russian TV network
- Couple allegedly received over $1 million and perks for work with Russia’s Channel One
- Charges include violating sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
- Defendants face up to 20 years in prison for each count if convicted
Former Trump Adviser Faces Serious Charges
The U.S. Department of Justice has leveled charges against Dimitri Simes, a former adviser to Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, and his wife Anastasia Simes. The couple is accused of violating U.S. sanctions and engaging in money laundering through their work with Russia’s Channel One, a state-owned television network sanctioned by the U.S. in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
According to the indictment, the Simes allegedly received over $1 million in compensation, along with a personal car, driver, and a stipend for an apartment in Moscow. This arrangement continued even after Channel One was placed under U.S. sanctions, a move intended to pressure Russia economically in response to its aggressive actions in Ukraine.
Alleged Violations and National Security Concerns
U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating that the alleged violations pose a threat to national security interests. The Justice Department claims that Dimitri Simes, who emigrated from the Soviet Union and became a U.S. citizen, should have been particularly aware of the implications of his actions given his background in national affairs.
“These defendants allegedly violated sanctions that were put in place in response to Russia’s illegal aggression in Ukraine,” U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves said in a statement announcing the charges. “Such violations harm our national security interests — a fact that Dimitri Simes, with the deep experience he gained in national affairs after fleeing the Soviet Union and becoming a U.S. citizen, should have uniquely appreciated.”
The charges come at a time of heightened concern about Russian interference in U.S. affairs, particularly as the country approaches another election cycle. The indictment serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to counter foreign influence and enforce sanctions designed to protect national interests.
Additional Allegations and Potential Consequences
The charges against the Simes couple extend beyond their work with Channel One. Anastasia Simes is also accused of purchasing art and antiques for sanctioned Russian businessman Alexander Udodov, who has ties to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. These items were allegedly stored at the couple’s Virginia home before being shipped to Russia, further complicating the legal situation.
If convicted, both Dimitri and Anastasia Simes could face severe consequences, with each count carrying a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The couple is believed to be currently residing in Russia, having left the United States following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
As the legal process unfolds, this case serves as a stark reminder of the complex web of international relations, sanctions enforcement, and the potential consequences for those who navigate these waters improperly. It also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of individuals with ties to both Russian interests and former President Trump’s inner circle.
Sources:
1. Former 2016 Trump campaign adviser is charged over his work for sanctioned Russian TV
2. DOJ charges former 2016 Trump campaign adviser over his work for sanctioned Russian TV
3. Russian TV presenter charged with violating US sanctions and money laundering
