Abstract: In the article, the authors analyzes the diplomatic messages of Ivan ІV to the Polish king Stefan Batory of 1579, 1581. It also considers methods of manipulation and persuasion by the king of the opponent, as well as methods of confronting this manipulation in the response of the Polish king Stefan Batory to the tsar of 14.11.1581. Conclusions are drawn about the great political erudition of Grozny, as well as about the infertility of the arguments presented by both sovereigns and did not contribute to the resolution of the military conflict.