Kremlin Spokesperson Breaks Silence: Conflict in Ukraine Now Termed War
On Friday morning, marking a significant departure from previous rhetoric, the Kremlin's spokesperson openly used the word "war" to describe the conflict in Ukraine, a term avoided until now in favour of "special military operation". In Russia, the accurate naming of the situation led to imprisonment, highlighting a shift as Dmitry Peskov elaborated on his statement.
2:39 PM EDT, March 22, 2024
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"Russia is now in a state of war, it's crucial everyone realizes this," Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesperson, asserted in an interview with "Arguments and Facts". This admission comes for the first time since the onset of the conflict dubbed the "special military operation".
In the aftermath of Russia's incursion into Ukraine, the Kremlin strictly prohibited the term "war", threatening imprisonment for its use.
Massive attack by Russia
Following a significant assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on Friday, Putin's spokesperson declared: "The special military operation in Ukraine has escalated into a war due to the collective West's intervention."
"We are in a state of war. Indeed, it began as a special military operation, but with the collective West siding with Ukraine, it has unequivocally turned into a war for us. I am convinced of this, and it's imperative everyone comprehends this for their personal mobilization," the Kremlin official stated.
Peskov clarifies use of "war"
Responding to Kremlin journalists, who were puzzled by Peskov's choice of word given the repercussions for others, RIA Novosti reports he urged not to "mix up the contexts".
"It's an unwarranted comparison since the contexts differ. The term 'war' applies variably. Just contrast the context in which I used it with those you have mentioned," he explained.
Peskov reaffirmed that Russia continues its "special military operation". "The situation remains unchanged. My point is that the conflict has evolved into a war for us with the involvement of the collective West. This shift does not pertain to any legal alterations," Peskov clarified.
