Ukraine faces grim start to 2023 after deadly barrage of Russian missile strikes
PBS NewsHourDec 26, 2022
Day 313: Attacks Continue Following Putin and Zelenskyy's New Year's Speeches
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Image copyright: Getty Images [via The Guardian]
The Facts
Following New Year addresses from Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy — in which both leaders appeared to double down on existing positions — both nations launched widespread attacks in opposition territory, each taking a number of civilian casualties.
Putin's address on New Year's Eve blamed the West for aggression and accused it of trying to use the conflict in Ukraine to undermine Russia. "It was a year of difficult, necessary decisions, the most important steps toward gaining full sovereignty of Russia and powerful consolidation of our society," Putin said.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Putin's New Year's Eve statement shows he remains unwilling to find a peaceful solution to the conflict, contrary to past remarks. He lashed out against the West and said it was Russia's duty to fight in this war, indicating he is prepared to lead Russia in a conflict that could last years.
Pro-Russia narrative
For years, the West has lied about its intentions in the Donbas region and deceived Russia by militarizing Ukraine. Putin had to make difficult decisions surrounding the special operation in order to ensure the security of all Russians.
