The aim of this article is to deconstruct selected Vladimir Putin’s narratives on Ukraine based on the available typology of strategic narratives. This allows to go beyond the surface layer of communications, which is evolving dynamically, adapting to the needs of the sender. Strategic communications contain information about the sender’s objectives, which are superior to the content of the narratives. The myths created by Putin regarding Ukraine focused primarily on identity and systemic aspects, and were followed by narratives on problematic issues such as Ukraine integration into the EU and annexation of its territories. The indirect effect that the narratives aimed to achieve among audiences was the weakening of Ukraine’s identity and subjectivity in international relations. By influencing the identity, Putin influenced the interests of the audience so that these aligned with his strategic goals. The understanding of the sender’s goals, as well as the indirect effects, are crucial, as the very content of the narratives is geared towards masking them.
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