THE SCALE OF OPERATIONS
Second, the change in Russia’s official terminology indicates a potential escalation of its military operations in Ukraine and a heightened focus on its political objectives. According to Russian military thinking, “war” represents the most intense form of military conflict, while other types, such as a “special military operation”, fall on a spectrum of warfare but are less intense.
Hence, the Kremlin’s use of the term “special military operation” regarding its efforts in Ukraine was a deliberate attempt to shape perceptions about its offensive, suggesting that it would be limited in time and scale.
Russia no longer needs to conceal its true intentions by playing with words. Indeed, in his interview with the Russian newspaper, Peskov mentioned the annihilation of Ukrainian statehood, saying that Russia cannot allow the existence of a state that has openly declared its intent to use any means necessary to reclaim Crimea.
RUSSIA VS THE WEST
Peskov also explained this change of language as a response to the West’s increasing involvement in Ukraine. Thus, the Kremlin’s statement conveys that Russia does not hesitate to engage in direct conflict with the West to safeguard its interests in Ukraine. Indeed, Putin declared in March that Russia is technically ready for a nuclear war with the West if the United States sends troops to Ukraine.
Peskov’s recent remarks are not the first instance of a Russian official highlighting the West’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict. For more than two years, the Russian state has frequently accused the United States, and by extension the West, of conducting hybrid warfare against Russia by supporting Ukraine. Such rhetoric has consistently emphasised the indirect role of the West in the conflict.
However, the Kremlin’s recent statements suggest a shift, indicating that Russia views the West as a direct participant in the war in Ukraine. This is particularly notable, coming just three days after the head of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, Sergei Naryshkin, claimed that France was preparing to deploy 2000 troops to Ukraine.
Russia has recently gained the upper hand in its war on Ukraine, although the Ukrainian military and people have shown admirable resilience. With Russia’s official declaration of war signalling an escalation, the West might face a critical juncture, forcing a decision on further actions in response.
Tarik Solmaz is a former defence analyst and PhD candidate at the University of Exeter, Strategy and Security Institute. This commentary first appeared on Lowy Institute’s blog The Interpreter.
Source: CNA
