Summary
Russia's main goal in its ongoing military conflict with Ukraine is to ensure the safety of people in the Donbas region, according to the Kremlin. The conflict, which began on February 24, 2022, focuses on control over the Donbas area, which includes Donetsk and Luhansk, critical industrial zones. Russia claims it wants to protect ethnic Russians in Ukraine; however, this reason is contested by Ukraine.
Key Facts
- Russia's main goal in the Ukraine conflict is the safety of people in the Donbas.
- Donbas is an industrial region in Ukraine, including Donetsk and Luhansk.
- Ukraine still controls approximately 20% of Donetsk.
- Ukraine refuses to give up control of Donbas due to moral and constitutional reasons.
- Russia claims its invasion aims to protect ethnic Russians allegedly persecuted in Ukraine, which Ukraine disputes.
- Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for President Vladimir Putin, stated some Russian objectives have been met.
- Russia indicates it prefers a diplomatic resolution, while some accuse Russia of misleading in peace talks efforts.
- The conflict began with a full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.
