Context:

Three years after Russia's capture of Mariupol, the nation is employing social media influencers as a means to subtly maintain control over the city. An investigation revealed that local residents, including children, are being educated in media programs and blogger schools that have connections to the Russian state. This strategy indicates a shift from overt military force to more covert, psychological tactics aimed at influencing the perceptions and opinions of the occupied population. By integrating local influencers into their agenda, Russia seeks to normalize and legitimize its occupation through a controlled narrative. This approach underscores the evolving nature of modern conflict, where information warfare plays a crucial role in achieving strategic objectives.

Dive Deeper:

• Russia, having seized Mariupol after an intense siege lasting 86 days, is now leveraging social media influencers to maintain control over the city. This marks a transition from using physical military might to employing psychological methods aimed at influencing public opinion.

• Residents of Mariupol, including school children, are being targeted through educational initiatives like new media programs and blogger schools, which have affiliations with the Russian state. These programs are designed to train individuals in crafting and disseminating content that aligns with Russian narratives.

• The shift to using social media as a tool of influence highlights the importance of information warfare in contemporary conflict. Control over the narrative allows Russia to subtly reinforce its presence and sway the local population's perception without the brute force of military intervention.

• By cultivating local influencers who operate within a framework supportive of Russian interests, the occupation forces aim to create a sense of normalcy and acceptance of the situation among Mariupol's citizens.

• This strategy reflects a broader trend in geopolitical conflicts, where digital platforms become battlegrounds for influencing public sentiment and legitimizing territorial control through curated messaging and propaganda.