Maga influencer Laura Loomer reverses course on Ukraine after Kyiv visit

Laura Loomer, a prominent ally of former US President Donald Trump, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ukraine on Thursday. This meeting follows a significant shift in Loomer's public stance on the war, as she had previously downplayed Russia's invasion and shared Russian propaganda with her followers. During her visit, Loomer experienced an air raid and acknowledged that her past indifference to the conflict was not appropriate. Her change of heart and visit to Ukraine could have political implications in Washington.

Far-right American activist Laura Loomer, a pro-Israel Trump ally, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday for an interview on her Rumble show. Loomer, who previously held hostile views towards Ukraine and had repeated Russian propaganda, stated she was wrong and now believes Russia is aiding Iran in killing U.S. soldiers. She expressed indifference to potential disavowal by Republicans opposing Ukraine aid, citing Russia's alleged funding of Iran with weapons. Zelenskyy's office welcomed Loomer's visit, emphasizing the importance of her seeing the situation firsthand. Loomer, known for her anti-Islam stance and support for Trump's policies, has a close personal relationship with the former president.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he met with senior representatives from U.S. company Raytheon to discuss jointly producing Patriot air defense systems. This follows a recent pledge by U.S. President Donald Trump to grant Ukraine a license for Patriot production. Zelenskyy expressed a desire to expedite a coproduction agreement, as Ukraine urgently needs these systems to counter Russian ballistic missile attacks. While Raytheon has not commented, Zelenskyy stated that government and private sector teams will remain in close contact. Experts caution that establishing production in Ukraine could take years. The article also notes Ukraine's increased drone attacks on Russian targets and Russia's claim of downing numerous Ukrainian drones.