Mark Galeotti: As Ordinary Russians Get Tired of War, Putin Turns Up the Propaganda
Historian Mark Galeotti argues that the Kremlin is intensifying its propaganda efforts as support for the war wanes among ordinary Russians.
In his article, historian and Russia expert Mark Galeotti discusses the Kremlin's increasing reliance on exaggerated fearmongering to maintain support for the ongoing war. He notes that as normal Russians grow weary of the conflict, rather than finding a resolution, President Putin appears to escalate the propaganda campaign. This approach suggests a troubling trend in which the government believes that louder messages will compensate for a lack of genuine support.
Galeotti's insights shine a light on the precarious balance between propaganda and public sentiment in Russia. He makes it clear that if messaging doesn’t resonate with the public, the state doubles down, opting for even more sensational narratives. This tactic not only indicates a disconnect between leadership and the populace but also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such a strategy, especially as weariness towards the war grows.
The implications of this ramping up of propaganda are profound, not only for domestic policy but also for international perceptions of Russia. As the Kremlin amplifies its messaging, it risks alienating segments of its population, which could lead to potential unrest and challenges to the government's legitimacy. Galeotti’s analysis underscores the need for vigilance in monitoring how state narratives evolve in response to shifting public attitudes.