The Kremlin has ordered Russian propagandists to declare Russia’s so-called “victory” in the war against Ukraine by February 24, 2025, the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion, according to a statement from Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence. This directive underscores Moscow’s strategic efforts to shape global perceptions and bolster domestic support amid ongoing military setbacks.

“Moreover, these plans may also include claims of a ‘Russian victory over NATO,’ as Moscow’s propaganda has long framed the war against Ukraine as a conflict with the Alliance,” Ukraine’s intelligence agency reports. This narrative is part of a broader strategy to portray the conflict as a broader geopolitical struggle rather than an unprovoked invasion.

Additionally, Kremlin intelligence services have been instructed to exploit the diplomatic efforts of the new US administration aimed at ending the war, as well as the bilateral meeting of delegations in Saudi Arabia, in their disinformation and psychological campaigns. By leveraging these diplomatic initiatives, Moscow aims to create the impression of being a constructive party to the conflict, ready for peaceful resolution.

“One of the key goals of the Kremlin’s new propaganda guidelines is to conceal Russia’s status as an aggressor and war criminal, isolated by the civilized world, under the guise of being a ‘constructive party to the conflict’ supposedly ready for peaceful resolution,” the statement from HUR reads.

Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence

It adds that for Ukraine’s European allies, Russia plans to label them as ‘enemies of peace.’ This tactic is designed to undermine international support and isolate Ukraine from its allies, much like how North Korea has historically portrayed the United States and its allies.

Key Narratives of Russian Information Warfare

• The West has betrayed Ukraine – creating the impression that Kyiv’s allies have abandoned it.
• Neither Moscow nor Washington cares about the opinions of Europeans and Ukrainians – pushing the idea that major players make decisions without Ukraine’s involvement.
• The US and Russia have secretly negotiated behind Ukraine’s back – attempting to suggest that have no trust in Ukraine’s partners.
• Ukraine’s government is illegitimate – discrediting the country’s leadership.
• The Ukrainian army is losing on the battlefield – demoralizing Ukrainian society and military personnel.
• Ukrainian officials are stealing billions of dollars in US aid – undermining international support.

These messages are designed to sow distrust within Ukrainian society, destabilize the country, and discredit Ukraine among its partner nations that provide critical military assistance. The Kremlin’s strategy mirrors historical disinformation campaigns, such as those employed during the Cold War, where propaganda was used to weaken Western resolve and undermine trust in democratic institutions.

For American readers, it is crucial to understand the implications of these tactics. The Kremlin’s efforts to portray the US as indifferent to European and Ukrainian opinions could resonate with domestic audiences, particularly those skeptical of international involvement. Additionally, the narrative of US-Russia negotiations behind Ukraine’s back could erode trust in the US government’s transparency and commitment to its allies.

Russia is actively spreading propaganda to justify its war against Ukraine, weaken Western support, and create divisions among Ukrainians and their allies. Moscow is trying to convince the world that the US and Russia have already reached an agreement, that Ukraine’s leadership is illegitimate, and that the Ukrainian army is losing. This is all part of a broader information war aimed at demoralizing people and making them doubt Ukraine’s future.

In response to these tactics, Ukraine’s intelligence agency has called for resilience and determination. “Hold the line! We continue the fight!” This message underscores the importance of maintaining unity and support for Ukraine in the face of relentless propaganda efforts.

As the conflict continues, it is essential for the US and its allies to remain vigilant against Russian disinformation. By understanding and countering these narratives, the international community can better support Ukraine and ensure that the truth prevails.

Recent developments, such as the ongoing diplomatic efforts and the bilateral meeting in Saudi Arabia, highlight the need for coordinated international action. The US should continue to engage in diplomatic initiatives while also strengthening its support for Ukraine, both militarily and economically. This dual approach can help counter Russian propaganda and ensure that Ukraine receives the assistance it needs to defend itself and rebuild.

In conclusion, the Kremlin’s directive to declare victory by 2025 is a clear indication of its propaganda strategy. By understanding and addressing these tactics, the US and its allies can better support Ukraine and counter Russian disinformation. The fight against misinformation is as crucial as the fight on the battlefield, and it requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders.