The Open Society Foundations (OSF), established by George Soros, has denounced US President Donald Trump’s “outrageous and wrong” statements, in reaction to Trump's announced plans to prosecute the philanthropist and his son.
Trump claimed Soros and his “radical left son” should be charged under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), accusing them of supporting violent protests and other alleged actions across the United States.
The RICO Act, introduced in the 20th century, was originally aimed at combating organised crime, including the mafia.
Protests against Trump’s policies erupted on a large scale earlier this year, with Los Angeles witnessing particularly intense demonstrations. Trump deployed the National Guard and Marines, an elite branch of the US military, in an attempt to suppress the unrest.
The president has repeatedly targeted Soros, accusing him of funding initiatives through the OSF that support minority and refugee rights as well as freedom of expression.
Soros was also awarded a Medal of Freedom by former President Joe Biden in recognition of his contributions to progressive and democratic causes.
