Russia behind viral disinformation targeting Tim Walz, says US official

Announcement is first time federal authorities have confirmed connection

Groups in Russia created and helped spread viral disinformation targeting the Democratic vice-presidential candidate, Tim Walz, a senior US intelligence official said on Tuesday.

The content, which includes baseless accusations about the Minnesota governor's time as a teacher, contains several indications that it was manipulated, said the official with the office of the director of national intelligence.