A Discourse Analysis of the Crimean Speech: Vladimir Putin's Testimony

This diploma thesis analyses Vladimir Putin's justification of the annexation of Crimea based on an interpretation of the discourse used in his Crimean Speech. The research uses the "Discourse- Historical Approach," inspired by Critical Discourse Analysis, as the methodological and conceptual foundation of the analysis. In addition, it incorporates other linguistic and social representation theories. The historical background of Crimea and Ukraine is used as a basis for assessing Russia's claim on Crimea. The analysis is categorized into four appeals: 1) the appeal to common history and culture; 2) the appeal to historical military involvement; 3) the appeal to justice; and 4) the appeal to international law. The appeals are contextualized using broader historical themes associated with the discourses used by Putin to justify the annexation. The interpretation is informed by historical context within each category. In the conclusion, the research presents the finalized interpretation, in which Putin's justification for the annexation of Crimea is shown to be constructed using the manipulation and selective recounting of historical facts. This diploma thesis uses a close textual reading and analysis of Vladimir Putin's Crimean Speech to expose the myths and manipulations he uses as a justification..