The US State Department is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to individuals or entities involved in election interference ahead of the upcoming presidential election. The department’s Rewards for Justice program highlighted Russian media organization Rybar LLC for using social media to incite discord and division in the United States.
Rybar allegedly utilized social media platforms to spread propaganda and influence the US election, with ties to Russian defense industrial organization Rostec, which has faced US sanctions. The announcement urged individuals with information on Rybar’s activities to come forward.
Rybar operates a Telegram channel popular among pro-Ukraine-war hardliners, co-founded by Mikhail Zvinchuk, a former special forces member. Zvinchuk has gained notoriety as a military blogger and announced the establishment of a “Rybar Media School” in Serbia to further their propaganda efforts in Western countries.