Influential MAGA Figure Laura Loomer Admits Russian Propaganda Influence, Shifts Stance on Ukraine

Laura Loomer, a prominent and controversial figure in the U.S. MAGA movement, has publicly acknowledged that she long believed Russian propaganda about the war in Ukraine. In an interview with Ukrainska Pravda, she said she thought Ukraine started the war, referred to it as a "Nazi state," and doubted President Zelenskyy's legitimacy. She attributed her views to consuming information from Telegram channels and Russia's state media RT.

After traveling to Kyiv and visiting front-line areas, where she saw the aftermath of missile strikes and took shelter in bomb bunkers, Loomer changed her mind. She now describes Ukrainians as kind and pro-American and finds the country beautiful despite war damage. She acknowledges Ukraine's right to self-defense against Russian aggression.

Loomer now advocates for U.S. support for Ukraine, including providing Patriot missiles, and emphasizes that a Ukrainian victory serves American national interests. She criticizes holding negotiations in Moscow and suggests they should take place in Kyiv or a neutral country. She notes that Russia supplies Iran with weapons used against U.S. soldiers, making Ukraine an ally against a common enemy.

Some of her followers have criticized her shift, spreading conspiracy theories that she is paid by Ukraine. Loomer denies this and attributes the claims to Russian propaganda. She also observes that President Trump's tone on Ukraine has recently changed.

Overall, Loomer hopes her realization can help other American conservatives reconsider their views but admits many may not do so due to pride.