Spokesman Dmitry Peskov links the attacks to Russia's need for its own Internet. It is a "geopolitical angle to try to defend their own steps," says Internet freedom expert Sanja Kelly.
Dennis Christensen was arrested during prayer. "I hope today is the day Russia defends religious freedom," he said before the verdict. Critics call it a severe crackdown on religious freedom.
National security adviser John Bolton referred to the special counsel investigation in announcing that Russia's president won't visit the United States this year.
The House speaker also said he would not invite Russian President Vladimir Putin to address Congress if he visits in the fall: "That's something we reserve for allies."
President Trump boasts that he's tougher on Russia than any other president. His administration has adopted some tough policies, even though Trump's rhetoric is almost always friendly toward Moscow.
The White House said it is negotiating with Moscow over President Trump's invitation for Vladimir Putin to visit. Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats was surprised.
Bill Browder, a critic of Russian President Putin, doubts he would ever be part of a swap that would give the U.S. access to 12 Russian intelligence agents — an idea floated by Putin on Monday.