The article calls this declaration by Putin cynical because the invasion was more than a special operation and would militarize Ukraine.
Putin's invasion of Ukraine was done with around 100,000 soldiers which means that it is a full scale invasion and not a special operation.
Ukraine has also become heavily militarized as a result of so many soldiers being in it. Putin was therefore being cynical because he was oversimplifying and lying about his invasion.
Find out more on the Russia - Ukraine conflict at https://brainly.com/question/26660181.