Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine has stretched on for years, bringing destruction, loss, and instability to an entire region—and shaking the world order. Yet despite widespread condemnation and economic sanctions, parts of Europe still cling to outdated or misleading beliefs about the war.
Whether it’s from misinformation, wishful thinking, or political convenience, these myths continue to affect how Europeans perceive the conflict and respond to it. And make no mistake—these aren’t harmless misunderstandings. They shape public opinion, foreign policy, and the level of support Ukraine receives in its fight for survival.
Let’s explore the five biggest lies Europe still tells itself about Russia’s war—and why it’s time to see through the fog of delusion.
1. “Ukraine and Russia Are Basically the Same People”
This is perhaps the most persistent—and dangerous—myth. The idea that Ukrainians and Russians are one people has been pushed hard by Russian President Vladimir Putin and echoed in various political circles across Europe.
It’s a narrative built on half-truths and imperial nostalgia. Yes, Ukraine and Russia share some early historical roots in the medieval state of Kievan Rus, but their national paths diverged centuries ago. Ukraine has its own language, culture, traditions, and political history.
Suggesting that Ukraine is just a “little Russia” not only ignores reality but also plays right into the Kremlin’s hands. It justifies invasion and occupation under the pretense of “reunification,” when in fact Ukraine is fighting for its right to remain independent.
Let’s be clear: Ukraine is a sovereign nation, recognized by the United Nations, and its people have consistently chosen independence and democracy over Russian-style authoritarianism.
2. “Russia Had to Invade—NATO Forced Its Hand”
Another favorite Kremlin talking point is the idea that Russia is just defending itself against NATO aggression. According to this narrative, the West is to blame for provoking Russia by allowing former Soviet countries to join NATO.
But here’s what that ignores: NATO is a defensive alliance. Countries like Poland, the Baltic states, and even Ukraine have actively sought NATO membership because they fear Russian aggression—not because they plan to attack Russia.
In fact, Russia began interfering in Ukraine long before there was any real prospect of NATO membership. The 2014 annexation of Crimea and the support for armed separatists in Donbas were unprovoked acts of aggression.
Let’s stop pretending Russia is the victim. This war wasn’t forced upon the Kremlin. It was planned, deliberate, and driven by imperial ambitions—not by fear of NATO.
3. “Sanctions Hurt Europe More Than They Hurt Russia”
It’s no secret that European economies have felt the pinch of sanctions—especially when it comes to energy prices. But claiming that sanctions are hurting Europe more than Russia is simply wrong.
Yes, Europeans have seen rising costs, but the sanctions are working exactly as intended. They’ve hit Russia’s oil revenues, cut off access to key technologies, and isolated its financial system. According to experts, Russia has had to dip deep into its sovereign wealth fund to fund its military—and at this rate, it could run out within a year if oil prices stay low.
Meanwhile, Europe has taken major steps to reduce its dependency on Russian energy. New partnerships, renewable energy investment, and stronger strategic reserves are all helping to cushion the blow.
So yes, there are costs—but they are necessary. The alternative is letting an authoritarian regime wage war unchecked. Standing up for democracy and peace sometimes comes with a price. And compared to what Ukraine is paying, it’s a small one.
4. “Ukraine Isn’t a Real Country Anyway”
This myth is perhaps the most dehumanizing of all. The idea that Ukraine isn’t a “real” country comes straight from Russia’s propaganda playbook and denies the very existence of 40+ million people with their own culture, language, and history.
Since gaining independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine has functioned as a fully sovereign nation. It has held democratic elections, built institutions, and charted its own course—one that often clashed with Moscow’s vision of control.
Dismissing Ukraine’s legitimacy is not just historically inaccurate—it’s deeply dangerous. It provides moral cover for war crimes, occupation, and forced assimilation. And it contradicts international law, which recognizes Ukraine’s borders and sovereignty.
Every time this lie is repeated or tolerated, it sends a message that might makes right—and that smaller nations don’t deserve freedom unless bigger powers say so.
5. “Europe Can’t Survive Without Russian Energy”
For years, Europe believed it couldn’t live without Russian oil and gas. That belief gave the Kremlin enormous leverage. Moscow could raise prices, cut supply, and exert pressure at will. Energy became a weapon, and Europe was vulnerable.
But the war in Ukraine has exposed just how risky that dependence was—and how unnecessary it might have been all along.
Over the last few years, the European Union has made bold moves to diversify its energy sources. The REPowerEU initiative has poured billions into renewable energy, LNG imports from friendly nations have increased, and new infrastructure has helped ease the transition away from Russian gas.
Is it painless? No. But Europe has proven it can survive—and even thrive—without Russia’s energy stranglehold. The sooner this myth dies, the better Europe’s energy security and foreign policy will be.
So, Why Do These Lies Persist?
You might wonder: if these myths are so clearly false, why do they continue to circulate in political discussions and media narratives?
There are several reasons:
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Economic Interests: Some businesses still profit from ties to Russia and lobby against harsh measures.
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Fear of Escalation: There’s a real concern that confronting Russia more directly could lead to a broader war.
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Cultural Ties and Ideological Sympathies: In some European countries, Russia still holds cultural sway or appeals to nationalist factions.
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Misinformation: Let’s not forget that Russia has invested heavily in propaganda, fake news, and disinformation campaigns across Europe.
But these reasons don’t justify staying silent or turning a blind eye. Understanding the truth is the first step toward making better decisions—and ensuring peace and justice win in the long run.
Conclusion: Time to Face the Truth
Europe’s relationship with Russia is at a crossroads. Continuing to believe these five lies only delays the continent’s moral and strategic reckoning.
This war isn’t just about Ukraine’s future—it’s about the future of Europe, democracy, and the rules-based world order. Standing up against falsehoods, supporting Ukraine, and holding aggressors accountable isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Let’s replace illusions with clarity and appeasement with courage. Because the price of believing lies is always paid by the innocent.