Russia's Covert Propaganda Network Exploits Unwitting Westerners, Declassified US Intel Reveals

Newly declassified US intelligence reveals that Russian intelligence, specifically the Federal Security Service (FSB), is running a systematic program to launder pro-Kremlin propaganda through private relationships with unwitting US and Western individuals. The FSB aims to influence public opinion and policy in the West by directing Russian civilians to build relationships with influential individuals and disseminate narratives that support Kremlin objectives. These influence operations are designed to appear organic and are often successful in planting Russian narratives in the Western press. The individuals involved are typically unaware of their role in spreading Russian propaganda. The intelligence provides examples of Russian civilians acting as "co-optees" for the FSB, with their activities being financed and directed by the intelligence agency.