On the fourth anniversary of the offensive in Ukraine, the Kremlin engages in cultural activities such as a ballet performance of 'Cleopatra' while neglecting to acknowledge the significance of the date. In the nearby Manezh Square, celebrations for the Chinese New Year take precedence, indicating a shift in focus for the Russian state. While the area is bustling with festivities, the somber anniversary lacks acknowledgment in official Russian discourse.

The Russian government continues to refer to its military actions in Ukraine as a 'special military operation,' a term that diminishes the gravity of the ongoing conflict and its implications. This choice of language reflects a broader strategy of minimizing the impact of the war on Russian society. The state-controlled narrative maintains that the operation is necessary and justified, although public sentiment may vary.

The absence of formal acknowledgment of the anniversary by the Kremlin underscores a significant aspect of Russia's current geopolitical stance. By redirecting attention to cultural events rather than the ongoing conflict, the Russian leadership may be attempting to maintain a facade of normalcy amidst international criticism and sanctions. The blame placed on European nations for nuclear tensions in the context of the Ukraine conflict conveys an ongoing message of defiance against the West, shaping public perception domestically while potentially complicating international relations.