It’s not that controversial. The other side is *always* amplifying existing conflicts on opponents. Doesn’t mean the cause isn’t just.
US tries to focus on Ukraine & Uighurs. Russia pushes for focus on Palestine, or Iraq & Afghanistan. US pushed for opposition in all ex Soviet influence area (Talibans or Ukraine alike) and Russia pushes for separatist movements in the west (Brexit, same Talibans when fighting USA, or just leftist Catalans wanting independence).