Russian Operatives Are Covertly Using American Social Media Stars and Impersonating Western News Outlets To Influence 2024 Election, Say US Officials

U.S. officials revealed that Russia is covertly using American social media stars to influence voters ahead of the 2024 presidential election. Criminal charges unveiled against two former employees of Russian media outlet RT highlight a scheme to fund American media businesses and conservative influencers, pushing narratives that align with Russia’s interests. These operations aim to exploit societal divisions and undermine confidence in the U.S. government. Another Russian operation, Doppelganger, impersonates Western news outlets to spread misinformation. Experts compare this digital propaganda to Cold War-era tactics, with Russia increasingly relying on social media influencers to amplify its messaging.