The trial commenced in Florida for four activists associated with the African People’s Socialist Party and Uhuru Movement, accused of illegally acting as Russian agents to sow political discord and interfere in U.S. elections. Among the defendants is 82-year-old Omali Yeshitela, the chairman of the U.S.-based organization focused on Black empowerment and reparations for slavery.
The defense argued that while the group shared goals with a Russian organization, they were not under Russian government control. The defendants face charges of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. and failing to register as foreign agents. Three Russians, including alleged intelligence agents, are also charged but remain at large.
The trial, overseen by U.S. District Judge William Jung, is not related to Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. The prosecution alleges that the defendants acted under Russian direction to sow division in the U.S., including supporting Russian interests in Ukraine.
The defense maintains that the group's actions align with their beliefs of over 50 years, focusing on Black empowerment and opposing colonialism. Yeshitela founded the organization in 1972 with these principles.
If convicted, Yeshitela, Hess, and Nevel face up to 15 years in prison, while Romain could receive a maximum of five years. The trial is expected to last up to four weeks.
