Russia's Covert Influence Campaigns Target the West
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The New York Times
A newly declassified American intelligence analysis reveals that Russian spy agencies are employing influence laundering techniques to conceal their involvement in spreading pro-Russia and anti-Ukraine messages in the United States and Europe. The analysis highlights how Russian intelligence services, particularly the Federal Security Service (F.S.B.), are covertly using allies within supposedly independent organizations to disseminate propaganda and establish connections with emerging leaders, with the aim of exerting long-term influence. These efforts go beyond the short-term tactics employed during the 2016 U.S. election and focus on cultivating a network of young leaders who will support Russia or promote pro-Russia narratives in their respective countries.