In late March 2024, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin chaired a meeting with the board members of the Fund for Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots Living Abroad, also known as “Pravfond.” The meeting outlined plans to actively support Russian compatriots abroad amid growing Russophobic sentiments, with goals including expanding legal aid networks and combating Russophobia.
Leaked documents shed light on Pravfond’s covert operations, revealing ties to former Russian intelligence members and funding for projects benefiting Russia. Despite portraying itself as a charity, Pravfond’s budget, established in 2012 by then-president Dmitry Medvedev, is funded by the Russian foreign ministry. The foundation offers legal assistance targeted towards defending Russian spies or individuals linked to Russian interests.
Arms dealer’s legal fees
In 2014, Pravfond allocated $260,000 for the legal defense of Viktor Bout, an arms dealer sentenced in the US for arms trafficking. Bout’s release in 2022 in exchange for an American prisoner illustrates Pravfond’s controversial support. He is now a local politician aligned with the LDPR party, which supports Vladimir Putin.
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