Part 8/14:
In response, the Kremlin has embarked on a propaganda countermeasure—an animated series called Sand Pit—featuring toddler versions of world leaders like Putin, Trump, and Xi Jinping. The show aims to promote patriotism and portray Putin as a calm, steady leader amid global chaos, further entrenching a state-crafted narrative of stability despite deep-seated economic woes.
Russia’s Declining Influence Beyond Its Borders
The bulletin then shifts focus to the waning influence of Russia in its near abroad—former Soviet states and neighboring countries. Several nations have visibly distanced themselves from Moscow, a sign of a diminishing sphere of influence.