2016 Election-Ukraine Parallels

The parallels between Russia’s official stance on the annexation of the Crimean Peninsula in 2014 and the United States’ election in 2016 are striking. Here’s how the steps have gone:

1. Deny any involvement.
   • Ukraine: Putin says those aren’t Russian Forces in Crimea
   • 2016 Election: Lavrov denies Russian influence over US election
2. Claim those involved are doing so of their own accord.
   • Ukraine: Russians troops fighting in Ukraine? Naw. They’re just on ‘vacation.’
   • 2016 Election: Putin denies a Russian state role in U.S. election, but says ‘patriotic’ hackers may have mounted attacks
3. Admit the result after it’s essentially gone away.
   • Ukraine: Putin admits Russian military presence in Ukraine for first time
   • 2016 Election: To be determined.

In the case of Ukraine, the first two steps were over the course of around half of a year. The final admission happened over a year after the initial reports. For the 2016 election, it’s slightly more drawn out. Maybe in December 2019 we’ll finally have the real picture. That also fits with the idea that we’re just in the beginning of what could be a long haul of an investigation going forward.

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