Far-right influencer Laura Loomer has reversed her stance on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, acknowledging that she amplified Russian propaganda and stating that it is time to "give Russia hell."
Loomer, a prominent MAGA figure, had previously described Ukraine as "a country full of Nazi apologists," questioned its civilian casualty figures, and called President Volodymyr Zelensky a "fake Jew" and "Jihadi apologist."
However, after visiting Ukraine and experiencing an air raid, Loomer conducted an interview with Zelensky and admitted her previous criticisms were based on falsehoods. "I said the worst things about Ukraine and then I traveled here myself in the middle of their war to learn more about Ukraine with my own eyes and I am floored with how many Russian lies I fell for," she stated.
Loomer's shift in perspective comes as Congress is set to consider legislation like the Sanctioning Russia Act, which proposes tariffs on imports from countries that purchase Russian energy products. The proposed bill reportedly has support across the aisle and from within former President Trump's administration.
Loomer has also connected Russia's actions to those of Iran and China, asserting that these nations are collaborating to advance their objectives. She expressed concern that "many Americans minds have been warped to support Russia’s third world slop that pushes communism and a multipolar world where Xi, the Ayatollah and Putin are our masters."
Loomer, who has maintained a relationship with Trump and influenced policy in the past, has stated her intention to advocate for the Sanctioning Russia Act. Her current position could influence legislative efforts aimed at countering Russia.