Russian Media Directed to Frame Ukrainian Incursion in Kursk Region with Historical Parallels

On 8 August 2024, Meduza reported that the political bloc of the Russian Presidential Administration has issued directives to state-controlled and Kremlin-loyal media on how to cover the recent incursion by Ukrainian forces into Russia’s Kursk region. The instructions emphasise comparing the events to the historical Battle of Kursk from World War II and reassuring the public that President Putin and the government will not abandon those in need.

Russian media have been advised to avoid alarming narratives about a “new front” and instead draw parallels with the Battle of Kursk, one of the largest tank battles in history, which was a significant Soviet victory. This comparison is intended to frame the current situation in a context of historical resilience and military triumph.

Additionally, media outlets have been instructed to avoid discussing the proximity of Ukrainian forces to the city of Kurchatov, home to the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant. The aim is to prevent the public from developing fears of a nuclear threat.

The Department of Analysis from the media suggests that it is highly unlikely for Ukrainian forces to reach the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, located about 50 kilometres from their current positions.

Emphasis on Human Interest Stories

Instead of focusing on military movements or potential threats, Russian media have been directed to highlight the “successes of the Russian army” in preventing further Ukrainian advances into the Kursk region.

There is also a push to report on Ukrainian attacks on civilian targets, particularly stressing the impact on children, with nine reported injuries among minors.

Coverage should also showcase stories of community solidarity, such as blood donation drives and locals housing evacuees from the Sudzhan district. These narratives are encouraged to be presented as detailed stories rather than straightforward news items.

Government Response and Reassurance

Media have been advised to assure the public that there are adequate facilities for those displaced by the conflict. Reports should cover visits by Acting Governor Alexei Smirnov to temporary accommodation centres, hospitals, and clinics treating the injured. The official death toll currently stands at five civilians, with 21 reported injuries.

A significant portion of the media coverage is to be dedicated to the efforts of federal authorities, particularly President Vladimir Putin and the government, emphasising that they are actively addressing the crisis and supporting affected residents. This directive appears to be aimed at reinforcing public trust in the government’s handling of the situation.

Timing and Implementation

According to Meduza’s sources within the Kremlin-loyal media, these recommendations were only received on the afternoon of 8 August, despite the Ukrainian offensive beginning two days earlier on 6 August. This delay suggests that the political bloc of the Presidential Administration initially struggled to grasp the situation’s scope, delaying the creation and dissemination of the media guidelines.

Read also:

Ukraine Advances into Russian Territory, Clashes Erupt in Kursk

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