Fact Check: Russia invaded Ukraine.

Fact Check: "Russia invaded Ukraine."

What We Know

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict that had begun in 2014 with Russia's annexation of Crimea and support for separatist movements in eastern Ukraine (Wikipedia). This invasion was described as an "unprovoked war of aggression" by U.S. officials, highlighting its implications not only for Ukraine but for global security as well (Defense.gov). The invasion led to widespread condemnation and significant military and civilian casualties on both sides, with estimates indicating hundreds of thousands of military casualties and tens of thousands of civilian deaths (Wikipedia).

Analysis

The claim that "Russia invaded Ukraine" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Wikipedia entry on the Russian invasion provides a comprehensive timeline and context, confirming that the invasion began on February 24, 2022, and has resulted in ongoing military conflict (Wikipedia). The BBC also corroborates this information, detailing the military actions taken by Russia and the immediate response from Ukraine, including the declaration of martial law (BBC).

Furthermore, the Council on Foreign Relations describes the invasion as a coordinated military assault involving land, sea, and air forces, which aligns with the reports from various international news agencies (CFR). The Britannica entry confirms the date and nature of the invasion, emphasizing its significance as the largest conflict in Europe since World War II (Britannica).

The sources used in this analysis are reliable, with Wikipedia providing a well-sourced overview, while Defense.gov, BBC, and CFR are authoritative platforms that report on international affairs and military conflicts. Their credibility is reinforced by their established reputations and adherence to journalistic standards.

Conclusion

The claim that "Russia invaded Ukraine" is True. The evidence overwhelmingly supports the assertion that Russia initiated a military invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, leading to a protracted and devastating conflict. This invasion has been widely documented and recognized by multiple credible sources, confirming its status as a significant geopolitical event.