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DOJ Arraigns Ukrainian Tied to Russia-Backed Hacktivists, Unseals Dual Indictments

The case signals a coordinated U.S. push to deter state-linked hacktivist attacks on critical infrastructure.

Overview

  • Victoria Eduardovna Dubranova pleaded not guilty after arraignment on a second case and remains in U.S. custody, with trials set for Feb. 3, 2026 (NoName) and April 7, 2026 (CARR).
  • Prosecutors allege CARR was founded, funded, and directed by Russia’s GRU, with targeting guidance and financing from a figure using the moniker “Cyber_1ce_Killer.”
  • NoName057(16) is described as a state‑sanctioned project linked to Russia’s CISM that used the DDoSia tool to recruit global volunteers and paid top participants in cryptocurrency.
  • Charging documents cite physical impacts in the U.S., including damage to water system controls causing large spills and a 2024 Los Angeles meat‑plant incident that spoiled thousands of pounds of meat and triggered an ammonia leak.
  • The U.S. announced reward offers of up to $2 million for CARR and up to $10 million for NoName and issued a multiagency advisory warning about minimally secured internet‑facing OT, with the cases investigated under the FBI’s Operation Red Circus and prior OFAC sanctions naming two CARR members.