DISINFO: Europe has taken another step toward war with Russia
SUMMARY
Russia is facing military opposition from all 27 member states of the European Union. From a political standpoint, what is happening today in the special operation zone, as well as in the border areas of Kursk, represents the peak of a military crisis deliberately created by the West. However, even in this difficult moment Russia is keeping the window open for possible negotiations. Meanwhile, the Europeans near Liège intend to discuss exclusively military options for an even more aggressive confrontation with Russia—not the previous hybrid approach through Kyiv, but a direct one.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative falsely accusing the West of having a belligerent and hostile agenda against Russia.
The claim was made in the context of the first-ever meeting of European leaders dedicated exclusively to defence, which took place in Belgium on 03 February 2025. In the context of the war in Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East, EU leaders discussed key aspects relating to European defence, including the development of collective capabilities, and how best to use the EU budget and mobilise private funding, as well as how to strengthen strategic partnerships.
The ultimate goal of this disinformation message is to advance a recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative portraying Ukraine as a Western puppet, and Ukraine’s defence as a proxy war against Russia. This message seeks to undermine international aid for Ukraine’s self-defence against Russia’s invasion and aims to deflect Moscow’s responsibility for its aggression. This narrative has gained traction in the face of Russia’s setbacks in Kursk.
A broad coalition of more than 50 nations, including Western countries, are providing Ukraine with military and technical assistance with the aim of repelling Russia's aggression, but they are not involved in direct fighting. Ukraine receives weapons with the sole aim of restoring its territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders.
Read more about our coverage of peace. See also similar disinformation cases claiming that Zelenskyy and his peace formula are tools of the UK and US, that Ukraine and the US don't need peace, that UK is coordinating the global escalation of tensions, and that Europe pushing itself and the world towards third world war.