The Language of War

How we talk about war shapes how societies perceive it. Euphemisms such as “little excursion” or “special military operation” illustrate how language can soften, obscure, or normalize military action.

In this talk, linguist and journalist Ksenia Turkova analyzes the linguistic strategies used to describe military conflict. Through a close reading of political rhetoric — including Donald Trump’s phrase “little excursion” and Vladimir Putin’s “special military operation” — she examines how euphemisms, framing, and narrative choices reshape the meaning of war in public discourse.

Drawing on examples from Russian state media, Turkova also explores how propaganda adapts its language when discussing conflicts involving Iran, tailoring vocabulary and messaging for different audiences.

By focusing on the linguistics of political communication, the talk reveals how seemingly small word choices can influence perception, legitimize policy, and redefine the reality of war.

Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.
RSVP is recommended, and donations welcomed.

Ksenia Turkova is an international journalist, editor, and media expert specializing in disinformation, propaganda, and the language of media. With a background in Russia and Ukraine, she has worked with Voice of America, Hromadske, The Insider, and other global outlets. She utilizes a foundation in linguistics and journalism and frequently comments on Russian-language media, hybrid warfare, and freedom of speech in the post-Soviet space.

Free People of Russia House, an organization that is opposed to the current Russian regime and fully supports Ukrainian independence and territorial integrity. See less
Washington D.C.

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