Russia Increases Propaganda to Normalize Occupation of Ukraine

The Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council reported that Russia's campaign to promote the narrative of legitimacy surrounding its occupation is accelerating. This includes a recent agreement signed between Rossotrudnichestvo—a Russian state agency—and the occupation administration in the Donetsk region.

The goal of this agreement appears to be the promotion and development of so-called 'international ties' in various sectors such as economy, culture, and education for the occupied regions. As part of this initiative, measures planned include internships for international students at local universities, various cultural projects, and the establishment of 'sister city' relationships with foreign municipalities.

The CCD warns that these efforts represent an overt campaign aimed at legitimizing Russia's occupied territories on the international stage. The agency emphasized that Rossotrudnichestvo is abandoning its previous guise of facilitating cultural exchange, now openly serving the Kremlin’s propaganda objectives.

The CCD further highlighted the importance of the international community being aware of potential threats posed by the activities of the 'Russian Houses' network. These institutions serve as nodes of Russian influence abroad and may undermine national security in host countries.

In an increasing number of instances, countries across Europe and Asia have opted to restrict or close these entities due to their propagandistic roles. Additionally, it has been noted that Russia has intensified its operations of 'Russian Houses' in Africa, where they act as recruitment hubs for mercenaries to participate in combat against Ukraine.

This expansion of influence underlines the broader implications of Russia's actions, which aim to reshape narratives and establish a foothold in foreign municipalities under the guise of cultural initiatives. Countries around the world are encouraged to remain vigilant against these tactics that seek to distort the reality of occupation and undermine Ukraine's sovereignty.