Putin Residence Attack Claims Spark Diplomatic Crisis as Zelensky Denies Involvement

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced on Monday that Ukraine launched a significant drone assault targeting President Vladimir Putin’s state residence in Russia’s Novgorod region. According to Interfax reports, the alleged attack involved 91 long-range drones deployed over a two-day period spanning December 28-29. Lavrov characterized the incident as “reckless” and warned that it would fundamentally alter Moscow’s approach to ongoing peace negotiations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky swiftly rejected Russia’s accusations, dismissing them as complete fabrications designed to justify further aggression against Ukraine. In a strongly worded statement, Zelensky suggested that Russia was manufacturing justification for strikes on government buildings in Kyiv. He emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to diplomatic solutions and does not engage in actions that could undermine peace efforts, contrasting this with what he described as Russia’s consistent pattern of destabilizing behavior.
Russian authorities claimed that all 91 drones were successfully intercepted and destroyed by air defense systems before reaching their intended target. Lavrov went further, labeling the alleged attack as “state terrorism” and confirming that Russian armed forces had already identified specific targets for retaliatory strikes. The Russian Foreign Minister emphasized that while Moscow would continue engaging in negotiations, the alleged incident would necessitate a reassessment of Russia’s negotiating position.
The timing of these allegations has raised significant concerns, as they emerged during active discussions about a potential Ukrainian peace deal. Zelensky warned that Russia’s claims appeared designed to undermine diplomatic efforts, particularly those involving coordination with President Trump’s team. He called on the international community not to remain silent, stressing the importance of preventing Russia from derailing progress toward lasting peace.
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin discussed the alleged attack with Donald Trump on Monday, stating that Moscow would reassess its stance in peace talks following the incident. It remains unclear whether Putin was present at the Novgorod residence during the time of the purported attack. Zelensky reminded the world that Russia has previously targeted high-level government buildings in Kyiv, including the Cabinet of Ministers building, highlighting what he described as fundamental differences between Ukrainian and Russian approaches to conflict resolution.