In a new escalation of the media and information war, the United States has imposed additional sanctions on Russian news outlet RT (Russia Today). The U.S. government now claims that RT is involved in more than propaganda and cyber influence, accusing the network of helping fund Russian military efforts in Ukraine. According to U.S. officials, RT is allegedly using crowdfunding platforms to supply Russian forces with military gear, including night-vision equipment and body armor.

The new sanctions will result in tighter restrictions on RT’s operations within the U.S., including monitoring the network’s journalists and their assets. Although many U.S. media outlets have raised doubts about the connection between RT and military fundraising, Washington is determined to clamp down on the network.

Russia’s response has been dismissive, with the foreign ministry calling the sanctions repetitive and pointing out RT’s previous sanctions, including the forced closure of RT America in 2020. Additionally, U.S. diplomats are lobbying other countries to follow suit, but countries like India have declined to engage in these U.S.-Russia disputes.