The aims and specifics of Russian propaganda in Slovakia

Abstract

The aims and the main specifics of Russian propaganda disinformation activities in Slovakia over the past decades are examined in the given article. It is found that the Kremlin has been expanding its influence in Slovakia using political and economic instruments. It is determined that the main narrative of Russian propaganda was reduced to the statement that Russia respects traditional values, and therefore is the best alternative to the liberal ideology of Western states. It is revealed that various media resources, through which information was disseminated by journalists and political figures loyal to the Kremlin have become an extremely important instrument of the disinformation policy of the Russian Federation in Slovakia. The Russian Center for Science and Culture opened in Bratislava was part of the local diplomatic mission and was actively and purposefully engaged in the propaganda of the Kremlin's foreign policy strategy, its leaders and figures promoted the narrative of the "invincibility" of the Russian patriotic spirit through various events and conferences.The claim that President Putin is a strong politician and leader of his nation, who is trying to protect the interests of Russia and balance the aggressive policy of NATO has been an integral part of the propaganda slogans of the Kremlin agents. It was found that due to long-term targeted propaganda, Russia managed to convince a significant part of the Slovak public that Ukraine, not the Russian Federation, was to blame for the outbreak of the armed conflict in Ukraine. The current Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico is one of the Kremlin's most loyal allies among the leaders of the European Union member states, who actively advocates for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Russia and is the initiator of deepening contacts with the latter at all levels.