Ukraine Says 300 Died in Theater Attack, Hunger Grips Cities
SnopesDec 31, 2021
Day 30 Roundup: Russia Begins Mobilizing Reinforcements, Ukraine Says 300 Killed in Mariupol Theater Bombing
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Image copyright: Eye Press News [via The Mirror]
The Facts
The US Pentagon on Fri. said that Russia has begun mobilizing military reinforcements after facing heavy losses.
Meanwhile, a top Russian general said the "first stage" of Russia's military plan is now complete, with the potential of Ukraine's armed forces "significantly reduced." He also said the primary focus is now on eastern Ukraine.
The Spin
Anti-Russia 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 re-write 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.
