From 'Special Operation' to 'Real War': Why the Kremlin Is Changing Its Wording

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has declared that a "real war" is taking place in Ukraine, a significant departure from Russia's official designation of the conflict as a "military special operation." While the term "war" has been used privately by some Russians and even by President Vladimir Putin on occasion, Peskov's public statement carries official weight and signals a potential shift in Moscow's narrative. He explicitly linked the escalation to the support provided by Western nations, stating, "It all began as a military special operation. But it is continuing as a war because behind Kyiv are Berlin, Paris, The Hague, Oslo, and unfortunately, Washington." Peskov accused these countries of supplying Ukraine with weapons and intelligence, thereby transforming the initial operation into a broader conflict. This framing attempts to deflect responsibility from Russia's actions and place blame on the West for prolonging the war. The timing of Peskov's remarks, shortly before a NATO summit in Ankara, is seen as strategic. Moscow may be seeking to exploit existing divisions within the alliance, particularly concerning defense spending and approaches to international security. The Kremlin's continued focus on influencing US President Donald Trump and deepening potential rifts within NATO suggests a broader geopolitical strategy at play. A recent phone call between Putin and Trump, described as "factual and very constructive," further underscores Russia's efforts to engage directly with the US president outside of traditional diplomatic channels.

“

It all began as a military special operation. But it is continuing as a war because behind Kyiv are Berlin, Paris, The Hague, Oslo, and unfortunately, Washington.