Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., raised concerns on Sunday over potential Russian links to some protesters advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza, urging the FBI to investigate the matter.
During an interview with anchor Dana Bash on CNN's State of the Union, the former House speaker expressed her belief, albeit without offering evidence, that certain demonstrators could be connected to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"For them to call for a cease-fire is Mr. Putin's message," Pelosi remarked. "Make no mistake, this is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine. It's about Putin's message. I think some of these protesters are spontaneous and organic and sincere. Some, I think, are connected to Russia. And I say that having looked at this for a long time now, as you know."
Pressed for clarification on whether she suspected some anti-war protesters were planted, Pelosi clarified: "I don't think they're plants. I think some financing should be investigated. And I want to ask the FBI to investigate that."
The congresswoman's remarks come amid heightened tensions surrounding the conflict in Gaza and escalating concerns about foreign influence in domestic protests.
Pelosi's call for an FBI investigation underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for thorough scrutiny of potential foreign involvement in protests advocating for a cease-fire in the region.
As the debate over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to unfold, Pelosi's comments shed light on the complex dynamics at play and the broader geopolitical considerations shaping the discourse surrounding the crisis.