Alexander Smirnov, a former FBI informant with Russian intelligence connections, was indicted for lying about a bribery scheme involving Burisma and the Bidens.

Prosecutors have labeled Smirnov a 'serial liar' and are appealing his release as he faces charges and was attempting to leave the country.

Smirnov's false allegations are being leveraged by Hunter Biden's defense team to contest separate tax and gun charges against him.

The U.S. government indicates that Smirnov's claims could be part of Russian efforts to discredit political opponents through disinformation.

The politically sensitive case has implications for an impeachment effort by House Republicans against President Biden, which Democrats view as baseless.

The government's appeal against Smirnov's release is being reviewed by District Judge Otis Wright II, while Smirnov's defense disputes the prosecution's financial assertions.