Tricky part here is that RBTH is a Russian state owned outlet. Likely that if they publish this story then they do so to soften it, perhaps twist some details or omit some facts, so that they would have a version of the story out there that makes them look better.
All, This report is true. The KGB’s profile was to plant false stories about the USA in 3d world media, it especially favored the Indian press. During my intel years, I saw this being practiced and saw the stories about Aids and the analysis behind them, especially how they were planted in overseas newspapers.