Ukraine faces grim start to 2023 after deadly barrage of Russian missile strikes
PBS NewsHourMAR 17 2023
Day 313: Attacks Continue Following Putin and Zelenskyy's New Year's Speeches
Image copyright: Getty Images [via The Guardian]
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.