The neo-soviet media system is still relevant in Russia to some extent. Though the current Russian media system differs from the Soviet propaganda model in certain ways, the state still exerts a high degree of control over the media. Most media outlets are either state-owned or owned by Kremlin-friendly oligarchs and businessmen. The Kremlin uses a variety of mechanisms to influence media content, including censorship, restricting access to resources, lawsuits, and economic pressure. As a result, the media largely avoids criticism of Vladimir Putin and promotes narratives that support the regime's interests. While media pluralism and access to diverse information has increased since the Soviet era, the space for independent and investigative journalism in Russia remains limited. The media is still viewed primarily as an instrument to support regime stability rather than promote transparency or civic participation. The state’s tight control over broadcast media, which most Russians rely on for news, enables the Kremlin to push propaganda and shape public opinion. The rise of the Internet and social media provides more opportunities for dissenting voices but the state also restricts certain online content and monitors digital activity. The Russian media system continues to reinforce an authoritarian structure of power even as society has transitioned to capitalism. The media serves the political and economic interests of ruling elites rather than the public. While not as extreme as the Soviet propaganda model, the contemporary Russian media system resembles the media dynamics in other authoritarian regimes. The neo-Soviet media model is still relevant as an example of how authoritarian governments adapt propaganda techniques to exert control over the media and manipulate public opinion to legitimize their rule. The Russian case shows how authoritarian regimes can appear to allow certain democratic freedoms and pluralism while undermining the development of independent civic institutions.