DISINFO: Russian special operation is preventive self-defence to eliminate a military threat
SUMMARY
The deepest interest of the West is the containment of Russia. This task has not changed for years. Therefore, Russia must be so strong that no one could even think about aggressive actions against it.
The Russian Special operation is a preventive self-defence to eliminate the military threat.
RESPONSE
A recurring disinformation narrative from pro-Kremlin outlets attempting to justify Russia's unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, launched on 24 February 2022.
Russia's unjustified and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is not a "special operation" but an all-out war against a sovereign state. Russia has been coming up with different explanations and pretexts for its aggression. It is Russia and President Putin who are clearly responsible for the war in Ukraine.
The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recorded 11,544 civilian casualties in the country: 5,024 killed and 6,520 injured (data by 12 July).
See similar cases claiming that The West ignores Russian interests, slaps unfair sanctions; The West has always humiliated Russia; The West is pursuing an absolutely unfriendly and hostile policy towards Russia; the West is trying to make Russia “obedient” and “comfortable”.
See the EU's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine here along with EU vs Disinfo's Guide to Deciphering Pro-Kremlin disinformation around Putin's War.