The sequence of events which Western media refuse to make clear to the public:
Zelensky makes a public decree aimed at the 'de-occupation and reintegration of Crimea" (3/24/21) and a speech about wanting to 'return Donbas.'(12/1/21)
Zelensky began to deploy his forces to the south of the country after his decree and then Russia conducted several exercises in response to Zelensky's aggressive moves. It was after Ukraine's troop deployments that Russia deployed troops to the border.
Zelensky continued to REFUSE the obligation to implement the Minsk Accords (UN Security Council Resolution 2202). After the 2/11/22 meeting in Berlin Ukraine still refused to apply the Minsk Agreements.
Ukraine began a massive increase in shelling of the Donbas after 2/15/22. Putin noted in his 2/21/22 speech that Zelensky’s government did not recognize any solution to the Donbass issue other than a military one.
On 2/21/22, Russia recognized the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic. Putin warned "those who seized and continue to hold power in Kiev to immediately stop hostilities. Otherwise, the responsibility for the possible continuation of the bloodshed will lie entirely on the conscience of Ukraine’s ruling regime."
Zelensky continued the increased bombing of the Donbas and didn't recognize Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic.