Russia claims Ukraine drones on Putins residence, Zelenskyy denies
The alleged incident took place just hours after a meeting between Trump and Zeleneskyy in Miami to end the Russia-Ukraine war which is going on since 2022. After the meeting, Trump had said that the efforts to end the war were in the final stage.
Moscow: In a development that may held back the peace talks between Russia and Ukraine led by the US, Moscow has accused Kyiv of attacking President Vladimir Putin’s residence in Novgorod region, a claim denied by the latter.
Accusing Ukraine of the same, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that Moscow’s negotiating position might shift due to this. While calling it an act of ‘state terrorism’, he claimed that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones at the presidential residence between December 28–29.
"Russian air defence ," Lavrov claimed as reported by Sputnik. He added that such actions would not go unanswered.
Trump ‘shocked and outraged’
Yuri Ushakov, another of Putin’s top aide claimed that US President Donald Trump was "shocked and outraged" over the alleged incident. During his telephonic conversation with Putin, Trump reportedly said, "Thank God we didn’t give Zelenskyy Tomahawk missiles," he added as per Russia Today.
Zeleneskyy dismisses claims
Meanwhile, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Russia’s claim as ‘fabricated’. Taking to X, he wrote, " Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump's team. We keep working together to bring peace closer.
"This alleged 'residence strike' story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia’s own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies. Furthermore, the Russians have already targeted Kyiv in the past, including the Cabinet of Ministers building,” he added.
Alleged incident just hours after Trump-Zelenskyy talks
The alleged incident took place just hours after a meeting between Trump and Zeleneskyy in Miami to end the Russia-Ukraine war which is going on since 2022. After the meeting, Trump had said that the efforts to end the war were in the final stage.