Putin is winning the war over Ukraine — both on and off the battlefield
Business InsiderJan 02, 2022
Day 114 Roundup: Von der Leyen Backs Ukraine EU Candidacy; Civilian Casualties Pass 10k
Image copyright: AP Photos [via Euronews]
The Facts
Following a visit from the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Romania to Kyiv on Fri., the European Commission recommended that Ukraine become a candidate for EU membership. Commission Pres. Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the move in Brussels, adding this was on the understanding that Ukraine carry out a number of reforms.
Meanwhile, following a statement from Ukraine's navy that it struck a Russian tugboat in the Black Sea on Fri., the country's defense ministry claimed the vessel had been sunk, though this has yet to be independently confirmed. The 'Vasily Bekh' was reportedly transporting troops, weapons and ammunition to Zmiinyi Island, also known as Snake Island, off the coast of Odesa.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
This invasion is an egregious violation of international law. Putin's ultimate aim is to restore the Soviet empire, even if it takes massive bloodshed and false pretexts such as calling the 2014 Ukrainian revolution after a fraudulent election a "coup". This unprovoked attack is the latest chapter in Putin's Orwellian attempt to rewrite history.
Pro-Russia narrative
NATO and the US have ignored Russia's security concerns by breaking its promise not to expand eastward in return for German reunification. These concerns are legitimate and taking them seriously would have avoided the Ukraine tragedy.