Russian Propaganda as a Tool of “Hybrid Aggression”. Case of Belarus

Abstract

The article analyzes “soft”, non-military tools of Russian “hybrid aggression” in Belarus. The role of the propaganda component as an important part of the foreign policy strategy of the Russian Federation is determined. Russian propaganda spreads by means of its main channels, such as television, Internet media, social networks and Russian-oriented structures, centers, foundations, organizations, etc. It is claimed that television remains one of the most powerful channels of influence and the spread of “hybrid aggression”. Attention is drawn to the fact that the growing popularity of online media correlates with its increasing influence on Belarusian society and the expansion of the network of pro-Russian propaganda media in the information space of Belarus. Social networks are considered as a platform for “hybrid aggression” by dissemination of key theses and propaganda narratives. In particular, Telegram channels are often used to further distribution of relevant information. It is pointed out that pro-Russian structures are actively influencing the formation of the information space and promoting the emergence of new opposition political projects that will be focused on Russia. The growth of pro-Russian propaganda after the beginning of the 2020 political crisis is emphasized. The main pro-Russian narratives that are broadcast in the Belarusian information space are formulated. The authors note that the level of Russian media presence in Belarus indicates the actual loss of the state’s information sovereignty, which makes it possible to influence both Belarusian society and political processes. It is assumed that the presence of a developed network of pro-Russian structures in the long run may become an instrument of destabilization of the socio-political situation within the country.