- Russia reportedly plans to announce a symbolic victory on the third anniversary of its full-scale invasion.
- The Kremlin is expected to frame the declaration as a triumph over both Ukraine and NATO.
- U.S.-Russia peace talks are ongoing, with concerns over Ukraine’s limited involvement.
Russia is allegedly preparing to declare victory in its war against Ukraine on February 24, 2025, marking three years since the invasion began. This announcement, according to intelligence reports, will be used to bolster Kremlin propaganda and project an image of success despite continued military resistance from Ukraine.
The timing of this declaration coincides with growing tensions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, who has pushed for a peace deal while blaming Ukraine for prolonging the conflict.
Kremlin’s Victory Narrative: Propaganda or Reality
As Russia approaches the third anniversary of its full-scale invasion, it appears to be shifting its focus from military conquest to strategic messaging. The Kremlin has long framed its war against Ukraine as a battle against NATO, and this anticipated declaration of victory on February 24 is expected to reinforce that stance. While Moscow still faces significant battlefield challenges, a symbolic victory announcement could help maintain domestic support for the war.
Despite Russia’s narrative, Ukraine continues to resist, with its military and government rejecting any notion of defeat. Kyiv has remained firm on its demand for a full Russian withdrawal and continues to receive military aid from Western allies. However, concerns persist over wavering international support, especially as U.S. priorities shift under Trump’s administration.
Trump’s growing criticism of Zelensky adds another layer of complexity to the situation. His remarks about the Ukrainian leader, coupled with reports of U.S.-Russia negotiations, have raised concerns in Kyiv and European capitals. There is increasing unease over whether the West will continue to back Ukraine as strongly as it has over the past three years.
While Moscow’s declaration may be a political move rather than a reflection of reality, its impact on global perceptions cannot be underestimated. If Russia successfully pushes its narrative of victory, it could weaken Ukraine’s diplomatic standing and complicate future peace negotiations.
Russia’s potential declaration of victory is more about optics than military reality. However, its impact on global politics, Ukraine’s resistance, and Western support remains to be seen.
“Propaganda is to a democracy what the bludgeon is to a totalitarian state.” – Noam Chomsky
