Changing Views of War and Images of Russia and Ukraine

Abstract

Since Russia openly launched military operations on the entire territory of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia and Ukraine have entered into their own wartime periods, and many different actions by the nations have been observed. When observing the two countries, it is difficult to accurately grasp the facts on the battlefield, and both countries provide information that differs from reality, but the conditions involved are different. Although reporting on the facts on the battlefield in Ukraine is also restricted, many facts within the country can be critically examined. In Russia, spreading anything that differs from the authorities regarding military operations has become a criminal offense, and information is also being disseminated with the intention of manipulating public opinion and the views of intellectuals, so there are more conditions that prevent accurate understanding of information originating from Russia. From 2014 to 2021, Russia began to use many coercive measures, such as occupying the Crimean Peninsula, getting involved in the Donbas conflict, and intervening in the politics of Western countries, but it limited the intensity of violence and used many diplomatic measures. Ukraine began to reform its system to counter Russia, which violated its sovereignty, but the entire population did not solidify in its stance to confront Russia. When Russia began its military operation in February 2022, it clearly expressed its desire for Ukraine to become unified under Russia, but it was unclear how to achieve this through military operations. Later, it became clear that the aim was to quickly establish a pro-Moscow government in Kyiv, through military shock and traitors within the Ukrainian authorities, but this plan did not match the reality of Ukraine and failed. Russia decided to continue the military operation and increased its control over the Luhansk Oblast, but suffered heavy losses, including numerous military failures, and has made progress little by little in compensation, but has not achieved its goal even after 33 months. During this wartime, it has not only harmed residents on the battlefield, but has also engaged in highly violent actions that go beyond the purpose of seeking Russia’s security, such as obstructing humanitarian aid, abducting children and forcing them to be educated as ethnic Russians, and allowing illegal acts by combatants to harm Russian citizens. Furthermore, through the disruption of grain exports, violation of norms regarding nuclear weapons, and the degradation of UN Security Council resolutions, Russia has continued to present the threat of undermining the functioning of the international order, even if it goes against the wishes of China, the Middle East, and African countries. Ukraine has notably demonstrated the improvement of social cohesion, the maintenance of civilian activities, diplomatic success in gaining international understanding and support, and tactical success in attacking Russia’s vulnerabilities with organizational operational capabilities, including new technologies. Nevertheless, eradicating corruption is facing troubles, and it is extremely difficult to chart a path to recovering Ukraine’s rights in the midst of war.