December 28 Vladimir Putin signed a new one strategy counteracting extremism in Russia. As noted by the Institute for War Studies (ISW), the Russian leader sanctioned his so-called policy of “denazification” Ukrainybecause this is the expression used in the official language Russian propaganda.
It's about the concept countering alleged extremismunder the guise of which Putin makes the same demands for removal Ukrainian authoritieswhich he launched in 2022, launching a full-scale invasion of the country. The report shows that the Russian president signed the last version of such a strategy in 2020.
In this year's strategy for the first time there are references to “rusofobii“, which the document defines as “unfriendly, biased and hostile” attitudes and “discriminatory actions” towards Russian citizens, language and culture by countries hostile to Russia.
War in Ukraine. Putin has adopted a new strategy
The 2024 document – similarly to the 2020 version – specifies Ukraine as the main source of extremism. The strategy also noted that Russia must “eliminate” the source of extremist threats coming from Ukraine.
“The document's references to 'Russophobia' and 'discrimination' against Russian citizens, language and culture also coincide with the recent thesis of the Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrovthat such alleged discrimination by those present Ukrainian authorities is the 'root cause' Russia's war against Ukrainewhich must be taken into account in any future negotiations” – indicated in the ISW report.
Analysts predict that The Kremlin will probably use it new document to justify their removal calls Ukrainian authorities as an element of “anti-extremist” activities.
ISW: Putin is trying to please a key part of the electorate
The new strategy also includes demands that will be echoed in the pro-war and ultranationalist part of the Russian society. According to ISW's assessment, this is probably part of the Kremlin's efforts to calm down and gain the favor of this electorate that is key to Putin.
The document signed by Putin stated that migrants in Russia are involved in illegal activities that contribute to the spread of extremism in the country.
The strategy calls for changes in migration policyamong others combating “propaganda activities” allegedly taking place in places of residence migrants. There is also a call to adapt educational programs already South Caucasus i w Asia Centralso as to prevent the spread of Russophobia.
The Kremlin's new strategy. Conclusions from the ISW report
ISW reminds that the Russian ultranationalist community of the so-called military bloggers she called many times Russia to adopt a tougher migration policy and complained about alleged “Russophobia” in the former Soviet republicssuch as Kazakhstan.
“Putin is forced to please his xenophobic and ultranationalist electoratewho is one of its staunchest supporters Russia's war in Ukraineand at the same time balance the demand Russia already labor force for its economy and army“- summarizes ISW.