FBI director nominee Kash Patel has been paid $25,000 by a Russian filmmaker linked to the Kremlin. The payment was made by Global Tree Pictures, owned by Igor Lopatonok, who also holds US citizenship and has produced shows promoting “deep state” conspiracy theories.
Patel took part in a documentary titled “All the President’s Men: The Conspiracy Against Trump”, which portrayed FBI nominees and former Trump officials as victims of a conspiracy. The series aired on Tucker Carlson’s network. In the segment, Patel suggested shutting down the FBI headquarters building.
If confirmed, Patel would be in charge of battling Russian spying operations in the US. His spokesperson claims he has disclosed all sources of income and complied with financial disclosure requirements. However, some have raised concerns about Patel becoming FBI director after being on the payroll of someone linked to the Kremlin.
The Senate Judiciary Committee has delayed a vote on Patel’s nomination following concerns from Democratic members. The committee chair’s office says Patel has complied with financial disclosure requirements, dismissing any concerns as an “obvious smear campaign”.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/kash-patel-russia-kremlin-fbi-b2694479.html