Kremlin spokesperson acknowledges conflict in Ukraine
22 March 2024 17:12
On Friday morning, for the first time since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the word "war" was used by the Kremlin's spokesperson. Until now, the regime opted for the propagandistic term: "special military operation". In Russia, speaking plainly could lead to imprisonment. Now, Dmitry Peskov is clarifying his remarks.
Many statements from Russian media or government officials are elements of propaganda. These reports form part of the information warfare waged by the Russian Federation.
- "Russia is now in a state of war, everyone should comprehend this," declared the Kremlin's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov for the first time since the onset of the "special military operation". These comments were made on Friday morning during an interview with "Arguments and Facts".
Following Russia's assault on Ukraine, the Kremlin prohibited the term "war" - under penalty of imprisonment.
Russia launches a massive attack
On Friday, following a substantial assault by Russia on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Putin's press secretary stated: - The special military operation in Ukraine has morphed into a war due to the intervention of the collective West.
- We are in a state of war. Indeed, it commenced as a special military operation, but as soon as the collective West joined Ukraine's side, it effectively became a war for us. I am certain of this. And it's important for everyone to grasp this for their own awareness - said the Kremlin official.
Peskov elaborates on the "war"
Kremlin journalists, taken aback by Peskov's admission, highlighted that "many have been prosecuted for using that phrase" - as reported by RIA Novosti. Peskov later that day urged not to "mix up contexts".
- It's a false analogy because the contexts vary. The term "war" is applied in different scenarios. Just compare the context in which I use it to those you're referring to - he replied.
Peskov reaffirmed that Russia continues its "special military operation". - Nothing has altered. My point is that, with the collective West's involvement, it has escalated to a war for us. This doesn't pertain to any legal alterations - Peskov explained.