Vladimir Putin is bracing for further losses in Ukraine, as Kyiv readies to launch its spring counter offensive.
The President is preparing how to deliver news of further setbacks to his beleaguered invasion to the Russian people.
A leaked dossier from the Kremlin details lines that pro-war Putin supporters should take when discussing the latest developments on TV and in blog posts.
It includes urging Russians not to "underestimate" the forces from Kyiv and lays the groundwork for dealing with Ukraine being successful.
According to the document, which was obtained by Russian outlet Meduza, propagandists will be urged to say that the setbacks are "understandable" because Putin is fighting the "entire west" due to the UK, US and EU's support for President Volodymyr Zelensky.
It also states that broadcasters should focus on attention on Russia's efforts to revamp the country, rebuilding schools and hospitals.
"It's clear there will be problems with the economy, and it's clear why," one Putin source said.
"Spending on the 'special military operation' isn't going anywhere.
"It is better not to show in specific amounts how much was taken [for the new regions]."
Ukraine is preparing to ramp up its attacks on Russia in the coming days as it attempts to push back Putin's forces.
Zelensky said yesterday that he believed the West would supply Kyiv with modern war planes if his country was successful on the battlefield, citing prior examples that had led to Ukraine being granted new types of military aid.
"This is why I am sure we will soon have aircraft.
"Because we will soon conduct an offensive, and after it I am sure we will be given planes.
"I would rather it was the other way round, as it would be easier for us, but it is like it is, and we are grateful for everything," Zelensky said.
"We need them. Really need them."