Conspiracy Theories and Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Abstract

The Russian government, which has promoted conspiracy theories for years, has done so with special intensity since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This article explains the role conspiratorial propaganda has played in the war, highlighting the Kremlin's aims of persuasion, signaling, and confusion. It also discusses how the authorities seek to target varying audiences inside Russia, internationally, and in Ukraine. Although conspiracy theories are unlikely to be decisive in the outcome of the war, they provide insight into the Kremlin’sworldview and indicate how it aims to shape public opinion.