Maria Butina, a central figure in the special counsel probe into whether the Donald Trump campaign conspired with Russia during the 2016 campaign, has entered a guilty plea in federal court, admitting she conspired against the United States. From CNN:
Butina, 30, was accused of working to infiltrate Republican political circles through groups such as the National Rifle Association to bolster Russian interests.
Butina said she acted "under direction of" a Russian official whom CNN has identified as Alexander Torshin. "Butina sought to establish unofficial lines of communication with Americans having power and influence over US politics," the prosecutor said in court.
As you can see in the illustration below, Butina is at the center of several circles—the Trump campaign, the NRA and Russia.
For a better understanding about why her plea deal is likely causing tremendous heartburn and sleepless nights for conservatives from evangelical leaders to Trump campaign staffers to the highest echelons of the NRA, click here for all the dirty details.
In addition to the link above, friend of Daily Kos Matt Ortega has helpfully provided a list of the troubling Butina links to conservative figures.
Tip of the iceberg, folks. Stay tuned.