▫️ russian media and pro-government Telegram channels published photos from an exhibition of Western military equipment captured by russian forces during the war in Ukraine. This exhibition was held in the city of surgut.

➡️ These events serve as a tool of russian propaganda with several key goals:

▫️ Propaganda and psychological influence: The exhibition of “trophy equipment” demonstrates to russian citizens the supposed successes of the russian army in the war against the West and its allies, including Ukraine. It creates the impression that russia can counter NATO and Western military equipment.

▫️ Strengthening patriotism: These events boost national pride and support for the russian government and the army, reinforcing the narrative of fighting a “Western aggressor.”

▫️ Distraction: Such exhibitions distract russian citizens from setbacks on the front lines, such as losses and equipment shortages. The display of Western equipment serves as a symbol of “victories” regardless of the situation on the battlefield.

▫️ Delegitimization of the enemy: Displaying destroyed NATO equipment reinforces propaganda about the weakness or ineffectiveness of Western military aid to Ukraine, supporting anti-Western rhetoric.

Similar exhibitions were previously organized in moscow and tyumen.