Fact Check: Russia invaded Ukraine

Fact Check: "Russia invaded 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 prolonged period of military buildup by Russia along the Ukrainian border, which began in early 2021, and was accompanied by a series of demands from Russia regarding Ukraine's NATO membership (Wikipedia). Prior to the invasion, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine, the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic, and ordered troops into these areas under the guise of "peacekeeping" duties (The Guardian).

The invasion was characterized by a rapid assault involving ground troops, airstrikes, and naval operations, aimed at capturing key cities and infrastructure across Ukraine (Defense.gov). The conflict has since evolved into a protracted war, with significant military engagements and counteroffensives from both Ukrainian and Russian forces.

Analysis

The claim that "Russia invaded Ukraine" is substantiated by a multitude of credible sources documenting the events leading up to and following the invasion. The timeline of the invasion is well-established, with multiple reports confirming that on February 24, 2022, Russian forces crossed into Ukraine, initiating a large-scale military operation (Wikipedia, Reuters).

The reliability of these sources is high, as they include major news organizations and government publications that have consistently reported on the conflict. For example, the New York Times and BBC News have provided detailed accounts of the invasion and its implications, while the U.S. Department of Defense has outlined the military and strategic aspects of the conflict (Defense.gov).

Critically, the invasion has been widely condemned by the international community, leading to sanctions against Russia and military support for Ukraine from various countries. This broad consensus among governments and reputable organizations further reinforces the validity of the claim.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The assertion that "Russia invaded Ukraine" is accurate and supported by a wealth of evidence from credible sources. The invasion began on February 24, 2022, following a series of provocations and military buildups by Russia, and has since resulted in a significant and ongoing conflict that has drawn international attention and response.