ISW reveals Putin's new strategy for Ukraine
Share
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has approved an updated "Strategy for Countering Extremism", which for the first time names Ukraine as the main source of threats. The document reflects the continuation of the "denazification" policy proclaimed by the Kremlin in 2022 to justify the invasion of Ukraine.
This is stated in a report by the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
What Putin is up to
On December 28, Putin signed a new "Strategy for Countering Extremism", which for the first time contains references to "Russophobia". This term is defined in the document as "hostile attitudes" and "discriminatory actions" against Russian citizens, language and culture by unfriendly states. The 2024 strategy names Ukraine as the main source of extremism and accuses it of spreading neo-Nazi ideas. The document states that Russia must "eliminate" these threats.
ISW analysts emphasize that this strategy is a continuation of the propaganda justification for the invasion, when the Kremlin tried to legitimize its actions through claims of "denazification" of Ukraine. The references to "Russophobia" and "discrimination" are also in line with the rhetoric of the Russian Foreign Ministry, which accuses the Ukrainian authorities of violating the rights of Russians, citing this as one of the reasons for the war.
The strategy contains elements that should reassure Russia's ultranationalist community. The document calls for strengthening migration policy, including combating "propaganda activities" in migrant areas. It also suggests adjusting educational programs in the South Caucasus and Central Asia to prevent the spread of "Russophobia".
ISW notes that the Kremlin is trying to find a balance between meeting the demands of its ultranationalist electorate and the need for migrant labor to support the economy and the army. This document is also used to justify the Kremlin's policies, in particular in its demands for a change of government in Ukraine.
Earlier, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin signed a law that allows organizations to be removed from the list of banned terrorist groups. Also, the Kremlin leader has once again confused his statements about the war against Ukraine. Answering a question about the possible end of hostilities in 2025, he said that he wanted an end, but that it was not in his power.
