ISW: The Kremlin Intensifies Militaristic Rhetoric, Preparing for a Prolonged Conflict with the West.

The Kremlin is actively spreading old propaganda narratives used to justify the invasion of Ukraine and increase the militarization of Russian society. This is reported by 'Glavkom' citing a report by analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Analysts at ISW claim that such statements are becoming more frequent in preparation for a prolonged confrontation with NATO.

Lavrov's statements are part of long-standing attempts by the Kremlin to reference the contribution of the Soviet Union to the victory over Nazi Germany and broader myths about the Great Patriotic War while discrediting Europe and NATO. These efforts aim to aggravate negative sentiments among the Russian populace and garner support for the militarization of Russian society in the long term.

Since 2022, when Putin justified the invasion of Ukraine by 'denazifying' Kyiv, such narratives have been spreading even more actively. The Kremlin is also trying to instill similar logic concerning Finland, Moldova, Estonia, and other countries to justify its attempts to control independent nations and create conditions for possible future Russian aggression. It is worth noting that on April 19, Putin announced a unilateral 'Easter ceasefire.' He ordered a cessation of fire but urged troops to be prepared for provocations from the Kyiv regime. At 00:00 on April 21, the ceasefire ended. Analysis: Lavrov's statements about supporting neo-Nazi ideology and fighting against Nazism aim to strengthen nationalist sentiments in Russia and justify the Kremlin's aggressive policies. These propaganda narratives are directed at garnering support from the Russian population for the militarization of society and creating an informational basis for possible future aggression.