Politics by Other Memes: Ukrainian Memetic Warfare after the Russian Full-Scale Invasion
Abstract:
This article explores Ukraine’s use of memes as a tool of operations in the information environment (OIEs) during the Russo-Ukrainian War. Employed by a decentralized, civic-driven network, Ukrainian memes boosted morale, countered Russian propaganda, and shaped international narratives. Divided into categories of popularization of Ukrainian heroism, mockery of Russians, and self-reflective irony, these memes exemplify the strategic utility of memetic warfare. Despite challenges in control and predictability, their viral success underscores their efficiency as an OIE tool. The Ukrainian case highlights the growing importance of memes in modern conflicts and calls for integrating memetic warfare into broader information operations strategies.
AUTHORS
Robertson School of Government Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States of America
Nazar Syvak is a doctoral fellow and Ph.D. candidate at Regent University. He graduated from Tallinn University with a Bachelor’s in Politics and Governance and holds a Master’s degree in National Security Studies from Regent University. Syvak’s research specialty includes irregular warfare, operations in the information environment (OIEs), and Ukrainian security strategy. He is currently studying how small states approach and employ OIEs, not only defending against but also influencing major powers.
Published In
Journal of Information Warfare
The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.
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