The senior administration official commended Russia, without commenting on its motive, in making the arrests.
“We welcome reports that the Kremlin is taking law enforcement steps to address ransomware emanating from its borders,” the official said. “These are very important steps that they represent the Kremlin taking action against criminals operating from within its borders, and they represent what we’re looking for with regard to continued activities like these in the future.”
The official also said they expected Russia to process the arrests via its own law enforcement system, a situation that has caused some to doubt whether the culprits will face real justice. The U.S. and Russia do not have an extradition treaty.