The KleptoCapture Department, established by former U.S. President Joe Biden in 2022, was focused on prosecuting Russian oligarchs. Donald Trump has decided to disband the department.
Newly appointed Attorney General Pam Bondi explained that the special unit needed a “fundamental change in mindset and approach.” Therefore, its resources will now be redirected towards fighting drug cartels. Investigators will return to their previous duties, and ongoing cases will be suspended.
During its operation, KleptoCapture initiated several cases related to violations of sanctions against Russian billionaires, including Oleg Deripaska and Konstantin Malofeev. Investigators also seized luxury yachts belonging to Suleiman Kerimov and Viktor Vekselberg.
Donald Trump’s decision is seen as an attempt to improve relations with Russia, with the disbandment of this department being another potential signal to President Putin.
