Fact Check: "Zelensky Started Ukrainian-Russian War"
What We Know
The claim that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky started the Ukrainian-Russian war is misleading and inaccurate. The conflict, known as the Russo-Ukrainian War, began in 2014 with Russia's annexation of Crimea and the subsequent armed conflict in the Donbas region of Ukraine. This escalation was largely a response to Ukraine's political shift towards the West and away from Russian influence, particularly following the Euromaidan protests and the ousting of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych in early 2014 (source-1, source-3).
Zelensky was elected president in 2019, five years after the initial outbreak of hostilities. His administration has faced ongoing aggression from Russia, culminating in the full-scale invasion that began on February 24, 2022 (source-1). Prior to the invasion, Zelensky sought dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing Ukraine's desire for peace and stability (source-2).
Analysis
The assertion that Zelensky "started" the war overlooks the complex historical context of the conflict, which has roots in geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia that predate his presidency. The war's origins can be traced back to 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and supported separatist movements in Eastern Ukraine, leading to a protracted conflict that has claimed thousands of lives (source-3).
Zelensky's presidency has been characterized by attempts to de-escalate tensions and engage in negotiations with Russia. For instance, he publicly called for talks with Putin before the full-scale invasion, highlighting his commitment to finding a peaceful resolution (source-2). Furthermore, during the military buildup in late 2021 and early 2022, Zelensky focused on reassuring the Ukrainian public and seeking international support rather than provoking conflict (source-1).
The claim also appears to be politically motivated, often propagated by sources with a vested interest in discrediting Zelensky and justifying Russia's actions. Such narratives are typically disseminated by Russian state media and officials, which have a history of spreading misinformation (source-6, source-8).
Conclusion
The claim that President Zelensky started the Ukrainian-Russian war is False. The conflict began in 2014, well before Zelensky took office, and has been characterized by Russian aggression against Ukraine. Zelensky has consistently sought dialogue and peace, making efforts to prevent further escalation of the conflict. The assertion that he initiated the war misrepresents the historical and geopolitical context of the situation.
Sources
- Volodymyr Zelenskyy - Wikipedia
- Ukraine conflict: President Zelensky warns Russia: We will defend ... - BBC
- Russian invasion of Ukraine - Wikipedia
- War has changed Zelensky - but now is the time for him to ... - BBC
- Russia-Ukraine War - The New York Times
- Trump says Ukraine started the war that's killing its citizens - AP News
- Ukraine's surprising resistance and the rise of its unlikely wartime ... - ABC News
- Russian ambassador on claims Zelensky helped start war in ... - YouTube
