Putin incorporates Ukraine's 'denazification' in new anti-extremism strategy – ISW

On Dec. 28, Putin signed the updated version of the Strategy for Countering Extremism, seeking to balance public interests with the needs of Russia's economy and military. Unlike the 2020 version, the 2024 document mentions "Russophobia" for the first time, describing it as "hostile and discriminatory attitudes" towards Russian citizens, language, and culture by unfriendly states.

"The 2024 document identifies Ukraine as the primary source of extremism and accuses it of spreading 'neo-Nazi ideas'," the report wrote.

"It states that Russia must 'eliminate extremist threats' allegedly emanating from Ukraine."

ISW experts recalled that as far back as February 2022, Putin used "denazification" rhetoric to justify his invasion of Ukraine. These themes have recently resurfaced, indicating the Kremlin’s unwillingness to compromise on its original demands from 2021-2022.

The document also emphasizes "Russophobia" and "discrimination," which Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed were the reasons for Russia's war against Ukraine. The Kremlin is likely using these arguments to justify its demand for the removal of Ukraine’s government.

The 2024 strategy resonates with Russia’s pro-war ultra-nationalist community, ISW analysts suggested. For instance, the document alleges that migrants contribute to extremism and proposes tightening migration policies. It also calls for reviewing educational programs in the South Caucasus and Central Asia to prevent "Russophobia."

ISW key findings as of Dec. 29:

• Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed proposals by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for potential terms to end the war in Ukraine.
• Putin’s inclusion of "denazification" in Russia's new strategy highlights his unyielding stance.
• Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Russia of shooting down an Embraer 190 passenger plane over the Chechen Republic.
• Ukrainian forces continue innovating to counter Russian strikes in Kharkiv Oblast.
• The U.S. has delivered its first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Ukraine.
• The Russian military is facing a worsening labor shortage exacerbated by demographic challenges and mobilization efforts.