The document that Meduza reports on consists of so-called "recommendations" from the Russian political top on how state-controlled media should report on the war.
The main message is that the media "should not underestimate" the counteroffensive Ukraine is expected to launch. Instead, they are asked to report on how much weapons the West has provided to opponents and emphasize that the offensive is being carried out with the support of NATO.
According to sources to Meduza, they want to create a situation where all outcomes can be seen as positive for the Kremlin. If the offensive fails, the conclusion can be drawn that Russia has fended off a strong enemy – if Ukraine achieves successes, they will be seen as acceptable in light of NATO's support, the sources explain.
Downplaying May 9 celebrations
However, the spring offensive is not the only thing the instructions discuss. The media are also advised not to attach much importance to the money spent on rebuilding infrastructure in occupied territories.
Furthermore, they are urged to tone down preparations for "Victory Day", May 9, when Russia celebrates the end of World War II. According to a source to Meduza, it may have to do with the fact that the traditional military parade in Moscow will be relatively stripped down. This is because the vehicles that are usually displayed have been sent to Ukraine.
"Lowering expectations"
According to media researcher Kateryna Boyko, who studies Russian propaganda, among other things, the instructions are a clear example of how the Kremlin's narrative has shifted.
Previously, the Russian line was to de-dramatize defeat with euphemisms, she explains. One example is how the retreat from Kharkiv and Kherson last autumn could be described as "orgranized regrouping" or "straightening the front line".
"This language was used to gloss over adversity, but now they lower expectations completely," she says.
Hear Kateryna Boyko on how the Kremlin controls Russian state media in the clip above.