Constructing the Image of the Ukrainian Military in Foreign Media

А. Hudz

Abstract


The objective is to analyze the peculiarities of the image of the Ukrainian military in foreign media, to identify key narratives and trends in the formation and coverage of the image in the context of a historiographical retrospective since the beginning of active hostilities in Ukraine.

Research methodology is based on a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the content of foreign media (world news agencies). The main subject of the analysis is the coverage of the Ukrainian military. The genre forms are reports, interviews and visual materials. The methods of discourse analysis and semiotic analysis were also used to identify key themes, symbols and narratives that shape the image of the Ukrainian military.

Results demonstrated that the image of the Ukrainian military in foreign media has transformed from a stereotypical view of an untrained soldier to a heroic, professional and patriotic defender of European values. The key narratives are courage, resilience, technological awareness, humanity, and leadership. Visual images emphasize state symbols (flag, trident), local traditions of the units, and humanity of the military (interaction with civilians).

Novelty lies in the systematization of the peculiarities of the image of the Ukrainian military in foreign media. The study expands the understanding of the role of the media in shaping the international image of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The practical value is to use the results of the study to develop strategies for Ukraine’s information policy aimed at strengthening the positive image of the Armed Forces of Ukraine abroad. Recommendations include emphasis on authentic stories of the military and cooperation with foreign journalists. The materials may be useful for specialists in communications departments, media analysts, and public diplomats.

Key words: military image, foreign media, image transformation, image of the Armed Forces of Ukraine abroad.


References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.32840/cpu2219-8741/2025.2(62).4

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