Russia is claiming they won a big battle in Ukraine, but people are confused. It turns out the claim might be fake. Experts say Russia used AI—which is computer-generated technology—to make up the story. It is the latest example of how Russia uses lies to try to win the war.

Because of this, many people, including the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), are pointing out that Russia’s culture of lying is actually hurting their ability to fight. When leaders make up stories about their success, it makes it harder for them to actually do their jobs on the ground.

Meanwhile, the facts on the ground look very different. Russia has been trying to take over the Donbas region for a long time. However, their deadline to capture it keeps slipping away. Ukraine says the Russian military keeps asking for more time because they cannot get the job done.

Some analysts think this pattern could last for years. In fact, one report from the ISW suggests that if Russia keeps going at this current pace, it could take them until 2032 just to take over Donetsk. That is a long time from now, suggesting that Russia is struggling much more than they want people to believe.

In short: Russia is making up stories to sound strong, but experts say these lies are showing that their military is actually behind schedule and having a very hard time.

Source: EUobserver