How Russia Finds the Cracks in American Society – and Widens Them

Laura Loomer, a well-known pro-Trump activist and influencer with millions of followers, provides insight into the workings of a Russian information operation. Loomer previously held the belief that Ukraine should not receive American aid, referring to it as funds extracted from "unwilling US taxpayers." She even called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky an "emerging dictator" who was "even worse than Vladimir Putin."

However, during a visit to Kyiv in July 2026, Loomer publicly abandoned her previous stance after meeting with Zelensky and learning that her anti-Ukraine views were influenced by Russian disinformation. Loomer stated she had been "bamboozled by Russian propaganda" and acknowledged that she had accepted false narratives such as Ukraine being a "country full of Nazis," and that Ukraine had initiated the war instead of Russia.

After losing her platform on major social media outlets following the 2020 election, Loomer found herself cut off from her audience. She was then approached by Russian media figures, specifically RT (formerly Russia Today), who claimed they were fighting against the same censorship she experienced. This newfound connection with Russian media led to Loomer being more receptive to their arguments.

According to Thomas Kent, an author and former president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russia excels at exploiting divisions among Americans who oppose aid for Ukraine. These divisions can be advantageous to Russia, as they allow for the expansion of the number of individuals with these views, even if they were not initially influenced by Russian propaganda.

Loomer's story is significant because she not only recognized her own manipulation but also courageously shared her experience, providing a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a Russian information operation.