Repetition in Rhetoric: An Analysis of Putin's Speeches during the Russia Ukraine War

Author: Kayla Cloherty

Field of Study: Political Science

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 67

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Russia stands as one of the world's most notable authoritarian states, spearheading the tactic of disinformation which has become essential to the regime. Regardless of the form it may take, repetition is a key component of disinformation. This research focuses on Putin's rhetoric surrounding the Russia Ukraine war by identifying commonly repeated themes of disinformation: historical ties, Russophobia, radicalism, Western imperialism, Ukrainian military aggression and traditional values. It analyzes prevalence of these themes in his speeches throughout the war along with commonly repeated anecdotes, coupled with scholarly research on Russian perception of the war. Such analysis will be used to show the most prevalent themes and talking points, helping to deepen understanding of the repetition's purpose and how this affects the Russian people. Furthermore, understanding what claims of disinformation are most repeated gives us deeper insight into their larger purpose in the maintenance of power in contemporary authoritarian regimes.