OREANDA-NEWS. The representatives of the Russian Embassy in the USA visited Maria Butina, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison for activities in the interests of Russia in the USA territory.

 “Despite all the injustice and severity of the sentence imposed on April 26, our compatriot withstands with dignity all burdens of imprisonment,” the embassy wrote on Facebook.

It was also reported that “due to an unlawful decision of the court”, a note of protest was sent to the US State Department.

Russian diplomats demanded that the American authorities ensure the protection of the rights and legitimate interests of Butina in accordance with international human rights standards.

On April 26, a court in the District of Columbia sentenced Butina to 18 months in prison for her activities in the interests of Russia in the USA territory. Nine months already spent in custody awaiting the verdict of the court will be reckoned.

According to media reports, Butina will be deported from the USA after serving a prison sentence. After the deportation, she will not be able to apply for permission to enter the United States for 10 years.

Former assistant to senator Alexander Torshin and creator of the public movement “Right to Arms” Maria Butyna arrived in the USA on a student visa.

She was arrested in July of 2018, and the US Department of Justice charged her with working as a foreign agent. According to investigation data, at least since 2015 Butina was engaged in conspiracy activities in favor of Russia and used her personal contacts with an American who had an influence on a state policy. At the end of 2018, Butina pleaded guilty in violation of the US law on foreign agents and made a deal with the prosecutor’s office.

The Foreign Ministry of the Russia stated that Butina’s verdict was a politically committed decision, and the accusations against her were fabricated.