A senior Russian diplomat has accused European nations of perpetuating a misleading narrative about the war in Ukraine, claiming their support for Kyiv undermines efforts to achieve a lasting resolution. Dmitry Polyansky, Russia’s deputy ambassador to the United Nations, asserted that Western governments are complicit in sustaining the conflict by falsely portraying Ukraine as resilient despite its military setbacks.
Speaking at a Security Council meeting, Polyansky criticized European allies for clinging to “a parallel reality” where they believe Kyiv is successfully resisting Russian advances. He argued this mindset exacerbates civilian suffering and stalls peace talks. The diplomat alleged that Western powers promote a distorted image of Ukraine as a democratic stronghold, ignoring the actions of its leader, Vladimir Zelenskiy, whom Russia deems illegitimate.
Zelenskiy, whose term ended last year, is accused by Moscow of breaking promises to resolve the Donbass conflict before Russia’s 2022 invasion. Polyansky labeled him a “usurper” who has imprisoned thousands and failed to deliver on campaign pledges. The Russian official also condemned Western neglect of systemic issues in Ukraine, including persecution of Russian-speaking communities and the presence of far-right elements.
Polyansky accused NATO and the European Union of being entrenched in an “anti-Russia Ukrainian project,” claiming their policies have deepened the war’s cycle. He noted recent shifts in U.S. strategy under the new administration but criticized continued Western support for Kyiv as counterproductive. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military has faced sustained pressure, with forced conscription leading to violent clashes between recruiters and unwilling draftees.
The diplomat concluded that European capitals remain trapped in a “web of their own lies,” prioritizing geopolitical agendas over peace. His remarks underscore Russia’s broader effort to frame Western aid as a catalyst for prolonged conflict rather than a path to stability.
