Kremlin’s Changing Rhetoric
Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, has stated that the Kremlin’s shift in language—particularly adopting the term 'war' instead of 'special military operation'—is part of a deliberate information campaign to ready the Russian population for a fresh wave of mobilization expected this fall. Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for Russia’s dictator, who previously used the acronym 'SMO,' now openly describes the hostilities as a 'real war.'
In his statements, Peskov has placed blame for the conflict’s escalation on Western nations supporting Ukraine, specifically naming Berlin, Paris, The Hague, Oslo, and Washington. He remarked:
There is a war going on, a real war. Do you know why it’s a war? Because it started as a 'special military operation.' It continues as a war because behind Kyiv stand Berlin, Paris, The Hague, Oslo, and, unfortunately, Washington. - Dmitry Peskov
Kovalenko emphasized that Peskov’s rhetoric is no accident; it is a calculated effort to psychologically condition Russians for potential restrictions, such as a ban on leaving the country. He noted:
Peskov has consistently started saying 'full-scale war' instead of 'SMO.' He stresses that 'everything began as an 'SMO' but escalated into a war.' This is not just a turn of phrase. It is a deliberate information campaign to prepare the Russian population for a mobilization that Russia is considering for the fall. - Andriy Kovalenko
He also pointed out that on the front lines, a Russian soldier’s average lifespan is just 15 to 30 minutes, underscoring the severity of the battlefield situation. These statements reveal the Kremlin’s intentions to ramp up mobilization efforts in the near future.
Impact of the Rhetorical Shift
The Kremlin’s rhetorical pivot to framing the conflict as a 'war' signals serious intentions by Russia’s leadership to escalate hostilities and prepare domestic society for new challenges. With potential mobilization measures slated for autumn, this information campaign appears designed to secure public backing for military operations.
This development highlights the critical need to monitor Kremlin information policy, as it could shape both frontline dynamics and societal reactions moving forward.
The Kremlin's recent shift in rhetoric highlights the escalating tensions, making it crucial for analysts to assess the broader implications on the battlefield. As the situation intensifies, experts are urging Ukraine to act decisively before the upcoming elections in September, emphasizing the need for strategic responses in light of Russia's mobilization efforts.