The Evolution of Naming: How Russians Won in the Donbass Conflict

When discussing the conflict in Donbass, one cannot overlook the evolution of naming strategies employed by the Russian side. Initially, the operation was termed a 'Special Military Operation for Protection of DPR and LPR'. To understand how Russia won and what this naming evolution signifies, we must delve into the strategic choices and their implications.

Naming the Operation

The term 'Special Military Operation' (SMO) was chosen for its official appeal and professional tone, distinguishing it from names like 'Operation X' or 'Day Y'. This name was not merely a diplomatic term; it reflected the intent to underline the operation's purpose - safeguarding the Donbas region. However, the full name, 'Special Military Operation for Protection of DPR and LPR', began to lose relevance due to changing circumstances on the ground.

Beginning in September 2022, referendums were held in Eastern Ukraine, and by November, Russia incorporated two former Ukrainian regions, Zaporozhye and Kherson, as well as the self-proclaimed separatist republics, Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR), into the Russian Federation. Consequently, the original rationale for the operation - protecting these regions - became obsolete, while the 'Special Military Operation' element remained, allowing for a reinterpretation of the mission.

The Changing Terminology and Its Impact

The renaming of the operation from 'Protection of DPR and LPR' to 'Special Military Operation' highlights a crucial shift in Russian strategy. Initially, the move was seen as Russia seeking to avoid conflict escalation, presenting the operation as a limited military intervention. However, the recognition of the separatist regions within the Russian Federation altered the perception and, in turn, the objectives of the operation.

Putin's Role and Missteps

President Putin's initial misstep in naming the operation has been a focal point for both domestic and international analysis. Calling the operation a 'special military operation' inadvertently provided an angle that fueled international scrutiny. Critics and journalists quickly seized on the term, transforming it into a symbol of Putin's blundering and ill-considered decision-making.

His expectation was that the operation would yield complete control of Ukraine within a few days, which was an unrealistic objective grounded in misinformation. The Russian leader failed to account for Ukrainian resistance and the broader international response. The turn of events in late 2022 marked a significant shift from a limited operation to a full-scale military conflict that stretched over a longer period.

Strategic Underpinnings and Scenarios

Russia's approach to conflict and warfare is markedly different from other nations, particularly those with democratic governance. For instance, Russia does not formally declare war to mobilize vast numbers of troops or establish a war economy. Instead, it opts for 'special military operations' as a tool to achieve limited objectives. This approach is often used to invade sovereign territories ostensibly to liberate them or combat perceived threats like Nazism and militarism.

Putin's strategy included the belief that countries would acquiesce to Russian demands due to the risk of nuclear escalation. His miscalculation was not in understanding this dynamic but in underestimating Ukraine's will to resist and its international allies' willingness to support it. The narrative of 'saving Russians' or 'fighting nazis' quickly became the preferred justification for the ongoing operation.

The Ukrainian Response and International Support

Ukraine's decision to fight back stemmed from a deep-seated belief in sovereignty and a willingness to protect its territory, rather than surrendering to Russian aggression. Ukraine, once part of the Soviet Union, had nuclear weapons during its period of independence. The promise of international support in the event of Russian aggression, backed by a nuclear deterrent, convinced Ukraine to give up its weapons.

When Russia invaded in 2022, the international community, led by the United States and its allies, mobilized support. This support included humanitarian aid, arms, and advisors, substantially bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities. The resistance from Ukraine and its international backers transformed the operation from a well-planned limited engagement into a protracted conflict.

Conclusion

The evolution of the naming from 'Protection of DPR and LPR' to 'Special Military Operation' encapsulates the broader strategic missteps and context of the conflict. It also highlights the adaptability of Russian propaganda and the changing narrative as the conflict escalated. Understanding this evolution is crucial for comprehending the complexity and ongoing nature of the Donbass conflict.