Moscow/Kyiv – Two starkly different realities of the Ukraine war were presented to the world, with Russian President Vladimir Putin describing a victorious military march and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealing a dirty, unconventional war.
In Putin’s reality, his forces are dominant. He told his military chiefs they have captured nearly 5,000 square kilometers this year and hold the “complete strategic initiative,” painting a picture of a successful and well-executed campaign.
In Zelenskyy’s reality, Russia is resorting to illicit and desperate measures. He accused Moscow of using its civilian oil tanker fleet for “reconnaissance and even sabotage activities,” portraying a state that flouts international law and blurs the lines of conflict.
Zelenskyy’s reality includes a story of resilience, as he affirmed that he is working with international partners to put an end to these alleged Russian operations, stating confidently that it is “entirely possible.”
These competing narratives are unfolding under the threat of major escalation. Putin has warned the U.S. that supplying Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine would be an unacceptable step, leading to the destruction of their diplomatic relationship.