Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke publicly Thursday for the first time since the release of the Panama Papers, calling them an American plot against Russia.

The millions of documents, leaked from the Panama-based law firm Mossack Fonseca, revealed several offshore bank accounts and shell companies traced back to world leaders and others, including several of Putin’s close associates.

While offshore corporations are legal, their anonymity can provide cover to corrupt politicians, tax evaders and money launderers.

Max Seddon, Moscow correspondent for the Financial Times, tells Here & Now’s Jeremy Hobson how Russians are reacting to the news.

Guest

• Max Seddon, Moscow correspondent for the Financial Times. He tweets @maxseddon.

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