Deideologization or Reideologization: Dynamics of Changes in the Value Discourses of the Russian Political Elite during the Special Military Operation (February 2022-2023)

The purpose of this study is to study the transformation of the values of the Russian political elite in the period from February 2022 to 2023, taking into account the processes of de-ideologization and re-ideologization in the context of ITS described by Daniel Bell. This study is methodologically based on the theory of discourse analysis proposed by Theon Van Dyck. To analyze the data, a contextual linguistic approach will be used, with a set of criteria to determine the ideological context of the discourse. The research will focus on text versions of public statements by officials of the Russian Federation, who are considered to be the most significant political figures due to their institutional positions. The data collection period will be limited to the timeframe between February 2022 and 2023, including events that took place during this time.The main objective of this study is to investigate whether the discourse of Russian political elites has undergone significant changes during their period of independence in response to the de-ideologization process and subsequent attempts at re-ideologizing. The paper begins with a structured introduction that includes elements of the research methodology, a thorough review of the relevant literature, and a discussion of the methodological foundations and theoretical underpinnings of the subject matter. In addition, it provides an analysis of empirical data and draws conclusions based on the results of applying theoretical concepts to empirical observations. According to the findings of the study, the Russian political elite continues to be a rather ideologically diverse group. Even a major external shock such as ITS has not significantly altered the depth of value-based discourse among the ruling class. Compared to other countries, the Russian elite appears to be more resistant to change.