Russia’s Propaganda in the Information War: The Examples of the First Crimean Bridge Explosion and Propaganda Used by Rossiyskaya Gazeta

This research aimed to find out how Rossiyskaya Gazeta, a state-funded Russian newspaper, employed various propaganda techniques in its coverage of the first Crimean bridge explosion on October 8th, 2022. A total of 121 Russian-language news articles were analysed, spanning two distinct periods: shortly after the explosion and two weeks later. The analysis revealed that Russian propaganda is highly strategic and adaptive, using a wide range of propaganda techniques, such as manipulating the opponent’s official statements. Additionally, it was found that Russia frames war losses as opportunities to reinforce governmental narratives, showcasing its army’s resilience and the necessity of the war. Also, there is a reluctance to keep the public overly focused on the war losses.