Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized the left wing of the Democratic Party on Sunday, suggesting that those who want a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are parroting a message supported by a major U.S. adversary: Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“For them to call for a ceasefire is Mr. Putin’s message,” the California Democrat said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “Make no mistake, this is directly connected to what he would like to see. Same thing with Ukraine.”

Mrs. Pelosi, who remains in Congress and serves leadership only as an adviser, went so far as to say she believes some pro-Palestinian demonstrators have Russian links.

Protesters have increasingly targeted their cease-fire calls on prominent Democrats including President Biden, whom they’ve dubbed “Genocide Joe” over his support for Israel.

“Some of these protesters are spontaneous and organic and sincere,” Mrs. Pelosi said. “Some, I think, are connected to Russia. I say that having looked at this for a long time.”

She continued: “I don’t think they’re plants. I think some financing should be investigated, and I want the FBI to investigate that.” 

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• Ramsey Touchberry can be reached at rtouchberry@washingtontimes.com.