Putin is a Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire!

According to Sandra Knispel, Putin has made historically doubtful claims about the unity of Russia and Ukraine, most notably his assertion in his defense of invading Ukraine as being due to their history of being "one people," which he asserted in his July 2021 essay on Russians and Ukrainians alleged historical unity (Knispel 1). Putin argues that Ukraine is an integral part of Russia as it has never been a nation or a state (Knispel 1). He further argues that both countries share a common history and heritage, that of Kievan Rus (862-1242), which combined parts of modern-day Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine into a loose medieval political federation (Knispel 1). However, as argued by Prof. Matthew Lenoe, Putin's claims may only be convincing in that the Slavic people shared a common heritage, and that is where the claim ends (Knispel 1). Prof. Lenoe notes the inability to trace a continuous line from this loose federation to the Russian or Ukrainian states (Knispel 1). He also observes that Russia and Ukraine attempted to claim their states as direct descendants of Kievan Rus dating back to 1000 C.E. as proof of their continuously existing states (Knispel 1). Ukraine has used this argument specifically in its fight for its independence as a nation, lamentably mythical and wrong, according to Prof. Lenoe (Knispel 1).

https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/ukraine-history-fact-checking-putin-513812/

Putin's claims about Russia's history and Ukraine's origins need to be more accurate and supported by historical evidence. For instance, Putin's assertion that Ukraine is not a sovereign state but part of Russia is historically incorrect. Ukraine has a long and distinct history separate from Russia, and the two countries have only been part of the same state for relatively brief periods.

Furthermore, Putin's claims about Russia's glorious past and its contributions to the world seem like an attempt to distract from the country's current political and economic problems. This propaganda approach is not new; many authoritarian leaders have used this before.

Finally, Putin may have explicitly timed his claims in July 2021 to coincide with the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. By framing his arguments in terms of historical grievances, Putin may be trying to justify his aggressive actions toward Ukraine and gain support for his policies from the Russian people.

In conclusion, while Putin's claims may appeal to some Russians, they do not hold up to historical scrutiny and seem more like an attempt to promote his agenda than an accurate reflection of the past.