The FBI released a “joint threat assessment” on Thursday detailing fears that “Russian, Iranian and Chinese influence actors have seized the opportunity to amplify narratives in furtherance of their policy interest amid the presidential transition.”
Additionally, a U.S. Intelligence memo claims that a Russian “proxy” took advantage of the event to advance a conspiracy theory, claiming that anti-fascist groups (antifa for short) were, in fact, responsible for the Capitol insurrection. Russia is also suspected to have “amplified themes related to the violent and chaotic nature of the Capitol Hill incident, impeachment of President Trump and social media censorship.”
As a result, the spread of misinformation surrounding the siege has the FBI on high alert. Leading up the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden the risk of violence is expected to remain elevated.
