The theme of deception has become the core of the Kremlin's state ideology
The Russian leadership has once again accused Europe of deception, which is an archetypal trait for Vladimir Putin and Russian society as a whole. Such narratives form the foundational myths of the Kremlin's modern ideology. This was reported by Glavcom, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
The assertion that Europe has deceived Russia has long become routine rhetoric for Kremlin officials. However, this myth has deep roots in the myth-making of the Russian leadership and its perception of the surrounding world.
Biography and Childhood Grievances
The analysis should begin with Putin’s canonical biography First Person, published before his first presidential run in the Russian Federation. The book mentions a sparring episode with a USSR national team member where the future Russian leader supposedly won, but the victory was awarded to his opponent. Putin emphasizes that he lost solely because his opponent was a national team member.
The Mythology of the Russian World
Such childhood grievances are scaled up to the entire state through the ideology of the Russian world. In this concept, history is completely adapted to the current political tasks of the Kremlin. The entire history of Russia in the interpretation of the Russian dictator is presented as a constant resistance to deception.
The Image of Traitors in Modern History
At a certain stage, internal traitors were added to the theme of external deception. While critics mostly bypass Soviet leaders like Lenin, Mikhail Gorbachev has firmly established himself in the role of the main traitor. History textbooks in Russia are regularly rewritten to suit new political needs.
Understanding why deception is considered the root cause of all defeats is key to analyzing the actions and statements of Vladimir Putin. Without this analysis, it is impossible to grasp the logic of decision-making within the current Russian state system.
Illustrative photo: Khamenei.ir / CC BY 4.0
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