Russia uses US flags in Ukraine to manipulate public opinion

On August 18, 2025, a U.S.-made M113 armored personnel carrier was filmed in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Ukraine, prominently displaying both Russian and American flags. This video was circulated by Russian propaganda outlet RT, claiming that the vehicle was captured by Russian soldiers from a unit involved in the ongoing conflict. According to reports, the M113 was originally supplied to Ukraine by Western military allies prior to its capture. The footage surfaced amid rising tensions in the region and appeared just days following a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising concerns regarding the propaganda strategies employed by Russia. The video is being used to imply a connection between the U.S. and Russian military actions in Ukraine, which further complicates the narrative surrounding the conflict. Ukraine’s Presidential Office head, Andriy Yermak, vehemently condemned this display, labeling it as a tactic illustrating Russia’s aggressive military strategy, which includes civilian casualties. Furthermore, the act of using U.S. flags is seen as an effort to manipulate perceptions and sow discord internationally regarding the actual complicity of the U.S. in the war. This incident highlights a broader propaganda campaign from Moscow, which has increasingly leveraged content favorable to its narrative while portraying Ukraine and its allies as obstacles to peace. In recent months, Russian forces have intensified their military presence in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, with approximately 70% of the territory under Russian control, including critical infrastructure like the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. After a series of purported sham referenda in September 2022, in which Russia claimed illegal annexation of multiple Ukrainian regions, including Zaporizhzhia, the international community has raised alarms about the situation. The recent footage and its strategic release come at a time when Russian officials seek to frame the narrative of the war, casting U.S. and Ukrainian leadership in a negative light while attempting to reshape their own image both domestically and internationally. As negotiations between the parties continue and the conflict remains unresolved, the usage of such propaganda tactics reveals the complexity and the stakes involved in the ongoing war that severely impacts civilians. Moreover, former President Trump’s recent comments about the conflict suggest he believes concessions from Ukraine could facilitate an end to hostilities. However, such concessions would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, including issues related to NATO membership and territories like Crimea. This presents a difficult challenge for both the Ukrainian government and the international community as they strive to find a peaceful resolution while facing increasing military pressure from Russia. Amid these developments, the broader implications of these propaganda efforts have raised concerns about the future of Ukrainian sovereignty and the geopolitical ramifications of misinformation in warfare.