The article reflects on the four-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the contrasting ways in which the two nations have commemorated this significant date. Flemming Splidsboel, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies, provides insights into the media narratives in both countries. He notes that while Ukraine observes this anniversary with a sense of remembrance and reflection, the Russian perspective still largely relies on the official framing of the conflict as a 'special military operation' that requires further explanation to its populace.

Splidsboel emphasizes that the media in Ukraine is deeply engaged in informing the public about the realities of the war and its impact, which contrasts sharply with the Russian media landscape, where there is significant state control over the narrative. In Ukraine, the anniversary serves as a moment of unity and remembrance, where the sacrifices made are honored, and the population engages in discussions about the path forward. Conversely, in Russia, the ongoing need to justify and explain the military operation reflects a lack of clarity and transparency regarding the true nature of the conflict.

The implications of these divergent media narratives are profound, affecting public perception and policy in both countries. Ukraine's strategy focuses on garnering international support and maintaining public morale, while Russia continues to manage dissent and maintain a unified front despite internal challenges and scrutiny. This stark difference in media portrayal not only influences the domestic sentiments but also shapes the international community's understanding of the conflict and its development over the past four years.