A sample of 3000 Facebook ads bought by Russian operatives during the 2016 US presidential election campaign has been released by the House Intelligence Committee.
The adverts and pages focus on divisive social issues - such as immigration, LGBTIQ rights and gun control - are linked to a Russian company with Kremlin ties.
They also encouraged protests against Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, fostered both support and opposition for Bernie Sanders, Muslim-minorities and the civil rights movement.
Of the 3000 ads that were turned over by Facebook to Congress, a few dozen of them have been released publicly as social media giants including Google and Twitter faced questions as to why they didn't do more to combat Russian interference during the election.
Here are a few examples of the ads below.
Ads targeting candidates
These ads were aimed at disproving 2016 Democratic candidate Hilary Clinton.
One of the ads released by US lawmakers. Source: Committe on Intelligence
One of the ads released by US lawmakers. Source: Committe on Intelligence
Ads aimed at dividing Americans
This included a statement about the government's dismantling of the Black Panthers, up against the Ku Klux Klan.
This ad targeted immigration with a 'No Invaders Allowed' sign pictured at the United States Border.
Other ads touched on sensitive topics such as police brutality.
The ads highlight how foreign agents sought to incite confusion, anger and division within America by using messages on hot-button topics.
One of the ads released by US lawmakers. Source: Committe on Intelligence
One of the ads released by US lawmakers. Source: Committe on Intelligence
One of the ads released by US lawmakers. Source: Committe on Intelligence
US intelligence services claim the Russians use of social media was part of an effort to sway the 2016 presidential election in favour of Trump.
Special counsel Robert Mueller is investigating whether the Kremlin worked with the Trump campaign to influence voters.
More reading
Facebook ads show Russia cyber intrusion
Many ads used careful targeting, with their messages geared toward particular audiences. One was aimed at those with an interest in civil rights and their leaders, using a man who claimed to be Bill Clinton's illegitimate son.
Another video making fun of Trump - was targeted at blacks with an interest in 'BlackNews.com, HuffPost Politics or HuffPost Black Voices'.
In preparation for hearings this week, Facebook disclosed that content generated by a Russian group, the Internet Research Agency, potentially reached as many as 126 million users.
While Facebook's officials and representatives of other social media giants were reluctant to acknowledge Russia's success on their sites in swaying popular opinion, the company leaders have changed their tune in recent weeks and provided Congress with an indication that they are willing to help in the prevention of future meddling by foreign agents.
- With AP
