Fact Check: "The administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk are contested regions in Ukraine."
What We Know
The regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in Ukraine have been contested since 2014, following the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the subsequent conflict in eastern Ukraine. According to the U.S. Department of State, Russia has occupied parts of Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts since 2014, asserting control through local proxies. The situation escalated in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, further complicating the territorial integrity of these regions.
The United Nations General Assembly has repeatedly affirmed Ukraine's territorial integrity, including resolutions condemning Russia's actions in these areas (source-1). In September 2022, Russia declared the annexation of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia Oblasts, although this claim is widely regarded as illegitimate by the international community (source-2).
Reports indicate that as of now, parts of these regions remain under the control of Russian-backed separatists, and the borders of the territories claimed by Russia are not clearly defined (source-2). The ongoing conflict has led to a complex situation where the administrative borders are heavily contested.
Analysis
The claim that the administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk are contested is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The BBC notes that eastern Ukraine has been a contested territory since 2014, highlighting the ongoing conflict and the presence of Russian-backed forces in the region. Furthermore, the Crisis Group provides a visual explainer of the conflict, illustrating how the war has impacted community boundaries and control in Donetsk and Luhansk.
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are well-regarded organizations that provide thorough analyses of geopolitical issues. The U.S. Department of State's report is particularly authoritative, given its official status and the backing of international law regarding territorial integrity.
However, it is important to note that Russian state media and officials often present a different narrative, claiming legitimacy over these territories. Such sources are generally considered biased and unreliable for factual reporting on the conflict.
Conclusion
The claim that "the administrative borders of Donetsk and Luhansk are contested regions in Ukraine" is True. The evidence clearly shows that these regions have been under dispute since 2014, with ongoing military conflict and international condemnation of Russia's actions. The situation remains complex, with both local and international implications for the sovereignty of Ukraine.
