Mapping the Terrain of Digital Warfare: A Bibliometric Analysis of Russian Propaganda During Armed Conflicts

In an increasingly interconnected world communication, the rise of social media has transformed the landscape of information dissemination and public discourse. Against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, especially during conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the internet has emerged as a powerful tool for both propaganda and counter-propaganda, influencing perceptions and behaviors on a global scale. This study undertakes a bibliometric analysis of the academic literature addressing Russian digital propaganda in times of war. The primary goals are twofold: first, to identify significant themes central to contemporary scholarly discussions and the interconnections among these themes; second, to ascertain which academic sources have garnered the highest citation counts and highlight the most recent scholarly contributions within this field. A total of 707 scientific publications were analyzed, sourced from the Journal Citation Reports (JCR). Employing bibliometric techniques, including citation analysis and thematic mapping, we delineate the landscape of research related to Russian digital propaganda during wartime. The findings reveal a multifaceted discourse, encompassing issues of misinformation, psychological effects, and national identity narratives. Additionally, the analysis identifies key scholarly sources that have shaped this dialogue and highlights emerging trends poised to guide future research. Overall, this study aims to enhance understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in Russian digital propaganda, thereby contributing valuable insights to scholars and practitioners alike. By systematically exploring this vital area of research, we hope to inform future inquiries and foster a more nuanced comprehension of the implications of digital propaganda in modern conflict scenarios.