Military ads vanish from Moscow as social campaigns rise
In the capital of Russia, there are increasingly fewer advertisements for so-called contract services. The authorities in Moscow have already limited the number of billboards and posters encouraging enlistment in the military. Military propaganda is to be replaced by "social advertising."
A few months ago, Moscow and St. Petersburg were full of advertisements encouraging people to join the military. The marketing of contract services grew alongside the Russian army's involvement in the war with Ukraine.
Advertisements appeared in places such as train stations and city streets. In December 2024, however, the number will decrease. The authorities of Moscow have already decided to limit the publication of contract advertisements.
It is known that there will be fewer billboards and posters at train stations, underground stations, and city streets. The number of posters directly encouraging participation in the war with Ukraine has been significantly reduced.
Why are war advertisements disappearing from Moscow?
The portal "Meduza" has determined that military propaganda will be replaced by "social advertising," which is familiar to the residents of Moscow. The authorities are offering Russians, among other things, outings to new seafood restaurants opening within the Russian capital.
Some ads are also being replaced by New Year's wishes for people living in Moscow and the surrounding areas.
There are already enough people being recruited to the front. Such a large campaign is no longer needed. There aren't enough weapons to keep recruiting people indefinitely. Recruits also need to be trained and equipped - a Moscow administration employee told "Meduza."
Journalists from "Meduza" indicate that reducing advertising could ultimately impact the combat effectiveness of the Russian army. The number of Russians heading to the front has significantly decreased compared to 2023.
