VICTORY IN THE GREY ZONE: RUSSIAN MASS PERSUASION AND THE NATO RESPONSE

This thesis poses the question of how NATO can prevail against Russian propaganda that aims to undermine the alliance that has defended Europe for nearly 75 years. Particular attention is devoted to the visual element of propaganda found in posters, photomontages, drawings, and film used by the Soviet Union during the Cold War in its campaign against NATO, and more recently by the Russian Federation in its multi-faceted assault on the hearts and minds of Europe. The thesis analyzes these phenomena in the context of studies by scholars Jo Fox and Peter Paret on how conflict has been portrayed in art and film. The thesis argues that Russian propaganda has its antecedents in the Soviet campaign and that NATO has countered Russian propaganda. The thesis compares NATO’s response to Soviet propaganda during the Cold War to NATO’s more recent efforts to counter Russian propaganda, notably the establishment of the Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence. Case studies examine the use of propaganda and public information by both Russia and NATO relating to Zapad 2017 and Trident Juncture 2018. The thesis concludes with recommendations on ways in which NATO can prevail in this critical battle for influence and enhance its effectiveness.http://archive.org/details/victoryinthegrey1094564862Lieutenant, United States NavyApproved for public release; distribution is unlimited