Reporter Yelena Chernenko of Kommersant and Romano Rozhkov
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's recent decision to ban the use of Russian cybersecurity firm Kaspersky Lab software across all federal agencies has sparked strong reactions from Moscow. On September 14, the Russian government criticized the move, while Kaspersky Lab denied the allegations and expressed its willingness to cooperate with U.S. authorities.
Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary to Russian President Vladimir Putin, told reporters on September 14 that the Kremlin views the U.S. decision as an attempt to undermine Russia’s technological presence in the global market. He called it "unfair competition" and claimed it violates international trade rules by targeting a Russian company. "This is regrettable," Peskov said, adding that Moscow would support Kaspersky in protecting its interests.
On September 13, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a directive banning the use of Kaspersky’s anti-hacking software within federal agencies, citing national security concerns. The department stated that Acting Secretary Elaine Duke was concerned about potential ties between Kaspersky employees and Russian intelligence services, and noted that Russian law could compel the company to assist in intercepting communications on Russian networks.
The order requires federal agencies to review their use of Kaspersky software within 30 days and develop a removal plan within 60 days, with full deletion expected within 90 days. However, the department also allowed Kaspersky Lab to file an objection and submit a written response to challenge the allegations.
The Russian Foreign Ministry echoed similar sentiments, vowing to protect the company’s interests. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned the U.S. action as unfair competition. The Russian Embassy in Washington described the move as a form of "terrorism" and warned that such actions could hinder bilateral cooperation, especially in areas like counter-terrorism.
Nikolai Nikifrov, Russia’s Minister of Communications and Mass Media, also criticized the U.S. decision, calling it baseless. "In my opinion, this accusation is fabricated out of thin air," he said. "I agree with Maria Zakharova. This is mainly a means of unfair market competition." He added that no company would engage in such activities and that the U.S. approach was unfriendly and harmful.
Kaspersky Lab strongly denied the allegations, stating it has "no political connection with any country in the world." The company expressed disappointment over the U.S. decision, claiming the accusations were based on false assumptions and lacked evidence. "We have never helped and will not help any government in the world to engage in cyber espionage or provocative behavior in cyberspace," the statement read. Kaspersky also called for further investigation and expressed hope for continued cooperation with U.S. authorities.
This article is published in the “Perspective of Russia†special issue of the “Global Times†and is provided by “Russian News.†▲ Z18 Bone Conduction Earphone,Outdoor Wireless Sports Headset,Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones,Outdoor Bone Conducting Headset Shenzhen Lonfine Innovation Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.lonfinesmart.com