Fact Check: Did Russia invade Ukraine

Fact Check: Did Russia invade Ukraine?

What We Know

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a military invasion of Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War. This invasion followed a substantial military buildup by Russia near Ukraine's borders that began in early 2021 and was accompanied by demands from Russia regarding Ukraine's NATO membership (Wikipedia). Prior to the invasion, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two pro-Russian breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine, the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic, on February 21, 2022 (The Guardian).

The invasion has led to widespread international condemnation and has resulted in ongoing military conflict, with Ukraine launching counteroffensives to reclaim occupied territories (NBC News). As of now, the conflict continues, with significant military engagements reported throughout 2023 and into 2024 (Defense.gov).

Analysis

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the claim that Russia invaded Ukraine. The invasion on February 24, 2022, was not only a military action but also a violation of international law, as it involved the unprovoked attack on a sovereign nation. Various credible sources, including major news outlets and government reports, confirm the timeline and nature of the invasion (Reuters, New York Times).

The reliability of these sources is high, as they include established news organizations and official government publications that have been closely monitoring the situation. The timeline of events leading up to the invasion is well-documented, with multiple reports detailing the buildup of Russian forces and the diplomatic tensions that preceded the military action (Cairn University, BYU).

While there may be some narratives attempting to downplay or justify the invasion, the consensus among credible analysts and historians is that the invasion was a clear act of aggression by Russia against Ukraine.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that Russia invaded Ukraine is supported by a substantial body of evidence, including documented military actions and international responses. The invasion began on February 24, 2022, and has been characterized as an unprovoked attack on a sovereign nation, leading to ongoing conflict and significant geopolitical ramifications.

Fact Check: Did Russia invade Ukraine