US alleges Russia meddling in Chilean protests

WASHINGTON (AP) — United States says re are indications that Russian activity in social media is exacerbating divisions in Chile, which has been rocked by dely protests.

A senior State Department official said Thursday that alleged online activity - denied by Russia - reflected increased Russian engment in Americas.

official did t provide details to support allegation and did t identify specific Russian entities said to be involved in activity. official was t authorized to talk to journalists and requested anymity.

Chile is getting cooperation from U.S. to deal with Russian online activity, according to official.

Michael G. Kozak, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere, told Congress last week that Russian online activity in social media was aimed at “stirring up violence, misinformation and that kind of thing” in Chile.

On Friday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov denied U.S. allegations, according to Interfax news ncy.

“ U.S. ministration is taking vant of difficult internal situation in Chile to continue its attempts to denigrate foreign policy of our country,” Ryabkov said.

Chilean President Sebastián Piñera has canceled two major international summits after protests over ecomic hardship and or grievances. At least 20 people died, hundreds were injured and businesses and infrastructure were damd.

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Luis Alonso Lugo on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/luisalonsolugo