Kremlin Revives Soviet Global Threat Narratives Amid Nuclear Tensions and Sanctions Disinformation

The Kremlin is reviving Soviet-era narratives to portray Russia as under constant threat from the West, particularly NATO, in order to justify prolonged warfare in Ukraine and future conflicts. Russian propaganda systematically distorts peace negotiations by falsely claiming readiness for peace while actually stalling progress and blaming Ukraine and the West for intransigence, also attempting to discredit US President Donald Trump's peace efforts. Kremlin-linked figures have made nuclear threats as intimidation tactics, but experts dismiss these as bluffs reflecting Kremlin weakness amid ongoing military and economic pressures. Despite Kremlin claims, studies indicate Western sanctions have significantly harmed the Russian economy, contradicting propaganda narratives that sanctions only hurt Europe and the US. For November 2025, Kremlin propaganda is expected to intensify campaigns discrediting EU and US sanctions, alongside renewed nuclear threats, while increasing efforts to undermine peace talks and portray Russia as militarily superior. Increased propaganda spending is anticipated in 2026 despite cuts in military and state program budgets, reflecting Moscow's prioritization of information warfare amid ongoing conflict and sanctions.