Results for: Foreign agent

Democratic Senator Ron Wyden has called for a special counsel investigation into Jared Kushner, former President Trump’s son-in-law, over allegations that he acted as an unregistered foreign agent for Saudi Arabia while lobbying for improved relations between Israel and the kingdom. The request comes amid concerns about Kushner’s lucrative post-White House dealings with Saudi Arabia, including a $2 billion investment in his private equity fund. Kushner’s spokesperson has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated.

Laurent Vinatier, a French researcher, has been sentenced to three years in prison by a Moscow court for violating Russia’s ‘foreign agent’ laws. The verdict comes amidst heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the war in Ukraine. Vinatier, known for his research on the former Soviet Union, was arrested in June and accused of failing to register as a foreign agent while allegedly collecting military information. Despite his plea for a fine and his declaration of love for Russia, the judge opted for imprisonment. This incident has further strained relations between France and Russia.

Democratic Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey is facing a second federal corruption trial, with jury selection commencing on Monday. The trial stems from allegations that Menendez accepted bribes from businessmen in exchange for favors, including operating as a foreign agent for Qatar. Prosecutors will emphasize the gold bars that Menendez allegedly received in exchange for using his influence to secure a deal with a Qatari investment fund. The defense maintains that there is no direct connection between the gold bars and any official favors. The trial is expected to last through mid-July.