Key facts
- Kremlin directs Russian media to use the phrase 'Putin's strikes' for attacks on Ukraine.
Kremlin directs Russian media to frame Ukraine strikes as 'Putin's strikes'
IN SHORT
The Kremlin has instructed Russian media to refer to attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as 'Putin's strikes,' aiming to portray them as more effective than Ukrainian attacks on Russia. This propaganda effort, detailed in a Meduza report, seeks to bolster support for the war and bolster President Vladimir Putin's image as a decisive military leader.
Who's Involved
Meduza
reported Kremlin instructions on media framing of Ukraine strikes
Join Ukraine
conducted analysis of Russian media and Telegram channels
Dara Massicot
senior fellow at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, commented on Russia's strategy
Olga Yurkova
co-founder of StopFake, analyzed the propaganda narrative
Samuel Greene
professor of Russian politics at King's College London, suggested reasons for the framing
Anton Shirikov
assistant professor of political science at the University of Kansas, commented on propaganda tactics
↳ Why This Matters
The Kremlin's directive to frame attacks as 'Putin's strikes' is an attempt to shape public perception of the war in Ukraine, potentially influencing domestic support and international narratives by personalizing military actions with President Vladimir Putin's image.