A significant number of propaganda activities are taking place in the russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, where the enemy is attempting to draw parallels between current events and those of World War II.

In particular, the so-called “court of the dpr” has classified Nazi crimes committed in the region during World War II as genocide. Additionally, regular thematic events are being organized involving the public, alongside the release of films. Russia is portrayed as the heir to the “great victory” over Nazism, while its aggression against Ukraine is framed as a continuation of this fight.

▫️ In doing so, russian propaganda seeks to reshape historical memory and consciousness among the residents of the occupied territories, drawing them into a unified russian socio-cultural space.

▫️ The kremlin is manipulating the legacy of World War II to consolidate support among the local population and foster the image of an “external enemy.”

By exploiting the issue of a “heroic past,” the occupation authorities aim to distract residents from ongoing economic and social hardships, as well as from the repression faced by those in the occupied territories who dissent from the regime.