Russian officials have repeatedly denied the US allegations of election interference, characterizing them as absurd and laughable nonsense. Moreover, they have said such allegations are intended to deflect US public attention from revelations of corruption and other pressing domestic concerns.
"GL 1 [license] authorizes certain transactions with the Federal Security Service (a.k.a. FSB) that are necessary and ordinarily incident to requesting certain licenses and authorizations for the importation, distribution, or use of certain information technology products in the Russian Federation," the guidance stated.
The Treasury specified that payments of any fees to the FSB for the received permits and licenses should not exceed $5,000 per year.
The license also authorizes transactions and activities that are necessary to complying with law enforcement actions or investigations involving the FSB. In addition, the Treasury has permitted abiding by rules and regulations issued by the Russian security agency.
When commenting on the move, the White House said that the US is not easing sanctions on Russia amid exceptions made for some transactions with the FSB, adding that there has been no shift in Washington's policy.
