“Compatriots” as a tool of influence: russia intensifies work with diasporas
russia’s ministry of foreign affairs has announced plans to intensify its work with “compatriots” abroad amid the ongoing hybrid confrontation with the West.
moscow claims it will engage more actively with diaspora communities by providing legal consultations and working to strengthen their “unity.” However, behind this “concern” lies moscow’s purely pragmatic interest.
▫️ The kremlin views russian-speaking communities around the world as a strategic instrument of influence. Its main objective is to form a loyal audience capable of influencing public opinion in their countries of residence and promoting narratives favorable to russia in the foreign media space.
▫️ In addition to information influence, such communities provide a convenient environment for conducting hybrid operations. Under the guise of “cultural consolidation,” networks are being created that can be used by the kremlin for destabilization, organizing protest actions, or even preparing acts of sabotage.
Thus, the expansion of work with “compatriots” may be part of russia’s broader strategy to increase its hybrid presence worldwide.
