Former FBI Director James Comey was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of making false statements and obstruction of justice. This marks a significant development tied to the broader investigation into the FBI’s handling of the Russia probe that examined alleged links between Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign and Russian officials.

President Trump responded to the indictment by expressing support for the legal proceedings. Comey, 64, is the highest-ranking former official to face charges in this context. If convicted on both counts, he could face up to five years in prison. Reports indicate that Comey is expected to turn himself in and that an arraignment is scheduled for October 9 in Alexandria, Virginia.

Comey has retained former federal prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald as his legal counsel. The case is being handled by Judge Michael Nachmanoff. Commentary surrounding the indictment has sparked significant political reactions, with Trump publicly criticizing Comey’s past actions during his time as FBI Director.

In a separate development, the U.S. Department of Justice has directed several U.S. attorney offices to explore potential investigations into the Open Society Foundations, a philanthropic organization founded by George Soros. The directive reportedly includes examining allegations related to financial practices and potential misuse of funds.

Critics of the foundation argue it supports controversial political causes, while the organization maintains that its mission focuses on promoting democracy, civil rights, and social justice globally. The group firmly denies any involvement in illegal activity and has labeled the investigations as politically motivated.

The Justice Department has stated that all investigations are intended to uphold public safety and the law. The Open Society Foundations emphasized that its U.S. programs aim to strengthen democratic institutions and that it does not support violence or illegal conduct.