Russian propagandists switched to criticizing the Kremlin authorities – ISW

Russia’s defeat near Kharkov and Liman have affected the Russian information space, Kremlin propagandists began to criticize the military leadership, according to the US Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

“The defeat of Russia in the Kharkiv region and Liman, combined with the inability of the Kremlin to effectively and fairly conduct a partial mobilization, is fundamentally changing the Russian information space. Kremlin-sponsored media and Russian bloggers mourn the loss of Liman while criticizing the bureaucratic failures of partial mobilization.

The ISW also notes that Kremlin sources and bloggers link the defeat near Liman and Kharkiv region to the inability of the Russian military to ensure proper supply and reinforcement of Russian troops in the north of Donbass and complain about the lack of transparency regarding the course of the war.

“Some guests of the heavily edited Kremlin TV programs broadcast on October 1 even criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to annex four Ukrainian regions before securing their administrative borders or even front lines, expressing doubts about Russia’s ability to ever completely occupy these territories.

Kremlin propagandists no longer hide their frustration with the partial mobilization, often discussing the illegal mobilization of some men and noting problems such as alcoholism among the newly mobilized forces. Some, speaking live, expressed concern that the mobilization would not create the force needed to restore the initiative on the battlefield, given the poor quality of Russian reserves, ”specify ISW experts.

Analysts of the institute note that the defeat around Liman caused even more indignation and negative messages in the Russian information space than the withdrawal from Kyiv, Snake Island or even Kharkov.

According to ISW, what is being broadcast in the information space of the Russian Federation is significantly at odds with the statements of the Kremlin and the Ministry of Defense that the situation is under control.