The Claim:
An RT article claims that EU Commissioner for Defense and Space and former Lithuanian Prime Minister, Andrius Kubilius and other EU officials, are advocating for the continuation of the Ukraine conflict. It suggests that NATO and EU member states are using Ukraine as a tool to “buy time” to prepare for a larger confrontation with Russia. The article also implies that Western actions, including increased defense spending and arms production, are driven by a desire to escalate tensions with Russia, falsely framing Russia as unjustly accused of aggression.
The Facts:
- The EU Commissioner’s Statements:
- Kubilius emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine as a means of deterring Russian aggression. His remarks about gaining time refer to strengthening EU and NATO defense capabilities to address security threats.
- He did not advocate for the continuation of war.
- Context on NATO and EU Actions:
- NATO and the EU have increased military aid to Ukraine as a response to Russia’s invasion, which has been widely condemned as a violation of international law. This assistance aims to uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Russian Aggression and NATO Expansion:
- Contrary to Russian claims, NATO’s support for Ukraine and its enlargement are defensive measures. Russia’s actions, including the annexation of Crimea and military operations in Ukraine since 2014, have heightened regional security concerns.
- While Moscow denies threatening NATO member states, its military build-up, nuclear rhetoric, and aggressive foreign policy have raised legitimate concerns among neighboring countries and NATO allies.
Narrative Context:
The article fits into broader Kremlin-aligned disinformation strategies aimed at:
- Undermining NATO and EU Credibility:
- By framing Western military aid and defense preparations as provocative or aggressive, the article attempts to delegitimize NATO’s and the EU’s actions while painting them as the instigators of conflict.
- Shifting Blame to the West:
- The narrative suggests that NATO expansion and Western interference in Ukraine provoked the conflict, absolving Russia of responsibility and perpetuating the claim of a “proxy war” in Ukraine.
By selectively quoting officials, misrepresenting their intentions, and amplifying Kremlin talking points, the RT article aligns with Russia’s disinformation goals: to erode Western public support for aiding Ukraine, cast NATO as a threat, and justify Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
