Summary

This brief analyses how Russia consolidates control over the information environment in occupied Ukrainian territories by systematically excluding Ukrainian and Western sources while promoting pro-Russian narratives. Through mechanisms such as rerouting internet traffic through Russian networks, restricting access to independent media, and enforcing a climate of fear and self-censorship, Russia establishes a closed information ecosystem. Within this environment, local pro-Russian voices and social media influencers amplify narratives that portray Russia as a protector and normalise the occupation.

These narratives often focus on everyday themes such as reconstruction, humanitarian assistance, and improved living conditions to depoliticise the war and obscure its violent realities. The brief highlights the importance of strengthening localised Ukrainian media in countering this information suppression, as well as maintaining communication with residents in occupied areas, and exposing Russian “normalisation” projects internationally as tools for legitimising occupation and erasing evidence of wartime atrocities.