Comparing Russian and Ukrainian media frames during the war: A mixed-method semantic network approach

Abstract

During the 2022–2023 phase of the Russo-Ukrainian war, information flows were intensively framed by both sides, predominantly via various Telegram channels. This article implements a mixed-method semantic network approach to analyse media framing in the context of this conflict, exemplified through a case study of Mariupol and Azovstal siege. Although prior research highlighted contrasting framing patterns in Russian and Ukrainian media, a comprehensive comparative analysis of media frames during the ongoing war still needs to be conducted. Our study addresses this gap by investigating and interpreting the inter-conceptual relationships surrounding the frames within the selected four Russian and Ukrainian Telegram channels. We examine variations in framing among conflicting sides and oppositional media and reveal four issue-specific conflict frames, each depicting diverse representations of the main events, actors, and their roles. Our find-ings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the conflict’s cultural and ideological background and lay a foundation for further exploration of generic frames in Russian and Ukrainian media.