Manipulation of Conspiracy Theories: The Myth of "Victimhood" and Moscow’s Colonial Policies

This narrative is actively used by Kremlin propaganda to justify domestic and foreign policies, including repression of dissent and aggressive actions on the international stage. However, a deeper analysis reveals that this concept serves as a cover for the systematic plundering of Moscow’s former and current colonies, as well as for the consolidation of colonial populations through manipulation of public consciousness.

The Origins of the Conspiracy Theory

The idea of a global conspiracy against Moscow is not new. Its roots go back to the 19th century, when the narrative of a hostile environment was actively used to justify the expansion of the Russian Empire. In the 20th and 21st centuries, this myth gained new life. Soviet propaganda, and later Russian rhetoric, actively promoted the thesis that the West and other external forces sought to undermine Russia’s "unique path."

The modern version of this conspiracy theory combines two key elements:

• The defense of "traditional values," including Orthodoxy.
• A commitment to the legacy of the USSR, including ideas of socialist justice.

These elements form a false image of Moscow as the world's defender against moral decay and exploitative capitalism, which in turn is used to justify internal repression and external aggression. Yet, while creating this image of a defender, Moscow simultaneously oppresses the populations of its colonies with impunity—a fact that rarely stirs outrage among the oppressed.

The Colonial Aspect: Plundering Under the Guise of Protection

From the formation of the Muscovite state to the present, Russia has displayed the characteristics of a classic colonial empire. Control over the Caucasus, Siberia, Central Asia, and other regions has been accompanied by systematic exploitation of natural resources and oppression of local populations. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Moscow continued to use economic and political mechanisms to maintain its influence over post-Soviet countries.

Much like how metropoles in classical colonial empires enriched themselves at the expense of their colonies, Moscow uses these regions as sources of resources while minimally investing in their development. Against the backdrop of growing social tensions within Russia and its peripheral regions, the myth of an external enemy becomes a convenient way to distract attention from real problems.

Manipulating Myths of Tradition

Another significant element of modern propaganda is the appeal to "ancient traditions" and the ideas of Orthodox Christianity. Moscow positions itself as the guardian of unique spirituality, contrasting it with the "depraved" West. However, the state's actual policies—based on suppression of free speech, corruption, and economic exploitation—often directly contradict these proclaimed values. The extravagant lifestyles of Moscow’s elites, with their unconventional indulgences, should, in theory, cast doubt on their adequacy.

Geopolitical Ambitions Under the Guise of Protection

The conspiracy theory also plays a key role in justifying Russia’s foreign policy activities. Interventions in Georgia, Ukraine, Syria, and other regions are framed as responses to external threats and attempts by the West to weaken Russia. However, this rhetoric masks a desire to restore control over former Soviet republics and strengthen its status as a global power.

The economic costs of these ventures are borne by ordinary citizens, while the elites profit through shady schemes and government contracts. Thus, the conspiracy theory becomes an ideal tool for diverting attention from the real sources of the country’s problems.

Conclusion

The idea of a conspiracy against Russia is nothing more than a political tool that allows Moscow’s elites to maintain control over the population and justify colonial exploitation. The myth that Russia is a victim of external forces conceals the true nature of its policies, aimed at consolidating power and redistributing resources in favor of a small group of individuals. Confronting this manipulation requires understanding its true goals and analyzing the historical and modern contexts in which it is used.