Results for: Kremlin Propaganda

Russia is employing a coordinated information campaign alongside its military operations, aiming to create panic among Ukrainian residents and their compatriots abroad. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has identified efforts by Kremlin mouthpieces to exaggerate concerns about a potential Russian offensive against Kharkiv City. Russian state television propagandist Vladimir Solovyov has advocated for destroying Kharkiv district by district. The ISW also cites Russian neo-nationalist claims that a battle for Kharkiv is inevitable and will surpass the intensity of previous conflicts. Despite these threats, the ISW assesses that Russia’s chances of capturing Kharkiv are minimal with renewed Western aid for Ukraine. The recently approved $61 billion funding package is expected to bolster Ukraine’s defenses against an anticipated Russian offensive this summer.

Russia is escalating its offensive on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, sparking fears of a broader assault on the northeastern region. Amidst ongoing airstrikes, Russian forces have targeted a TV tower, disrupting television signals in the area. Ukrainian officials believe Moscow aims to create a demilitarized zone along the front lines, potentially making Kharkiv uninhabitable.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s close associates have criticized House Speaker Kevin McCarthy for supporting an additional aid package for Ukraine. The Kremlin propagandist Vladimir Solovyov called McCarthy a “traitor” for pushing the funding measure despite opposition from some Republicans. Solovyov claimed that President Biden had “used backstage methods” to sway McCarthy’s support, and that the Ukrainian aid bill was a “brutal victory” for Biden. Russian state-run media have previously expressed affection for McCarthy, but have now turned against him.