Ukraine rejected Russian accusations that it carried out a drone attack on one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Moscow spread false claims to undermine peace efforts. He accused Russia of inventing a pretext to justify further military action. Ukrainian officials confirmed no such strike occurred.
Russia Claims Overnight Drone Attack
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones overnight. He claimed the drones targeted Putin’s state residence in the Novgorod region. Russian authorities did not disclose Putin’s location during the alleged incident. Moscow said it would review its stance in peace negotiations.
Zelensky Labels Allegation False
Zelensky described the claim as deliberate misinformation. He said the Kremlin used lies to prolong the war. He cited previous Russian attacks on Ukrainian government buildings. Zelensky warned the accusation could precede further military strikes.
“Everyone must remain vigilant now,” Zelensky told journalists on Monday. He warned of a potential strike on Kyiv. He described Russia’s statements as a clear threat. Zelensky said Moscow sought excuses to continue fighting. He said Russia viewed ceasefire progress as a failure.
Appeal to the International Community
Zelensky urged global leaders to respond decisively. He warned that silence could encourage further Russian aggression. He stressed the need to protect diplomatic efforts toward lasting peace.
Lavrov Says Air Defences Intercepted Drones
Lavrov said Russian air defence systems intercepted and destroyed all drones. He reported no casualties or damage. He accused Kyiv of pursuing state terrorism. He said Russia would revise its negotiating position. Lavrov added that talks with the United States would continue.
Kremlin Refuses to Present Evidence
The Kremlin said it would not release proof of the alleged strike. A spokesman said Russia would harden its negotiating stance. Ukraine’s foreign minister urged other countries to ignore the claim. Andrii Sybiha said Russia provided no credible evidence. He said no attack occurred.
Peace Talks Continue with US Support
The allegation came after talks between Ukraine and the United States in Florida. Presidents Trump and Zelensky discussed a revised peace plan. Zelensky later said ending the war in 2026 remained possible. He said Ukraine could not succeed without continued US support.
Zelensky praised Trump’s readiness to impose sanctions and economic pressure. He said strong US action could accelerate peace. He added that Washington could move negotiations forward quickly.
Distrust Persists Between Kyiv and Moscow
Zelensky said he saw no indication that Putin wanted peace. He said he did not trust the Russian leader. He said Putin opposed Ukraine’s success. Zelensky said the United States offered 15-year security guarantees. Trump said negotiators had nearly finalised that agreement.
Territorial Disputes Remain Unresolved
Zelensky said territorial issues remained unsettled. He highlighted the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant as a key concern. He said talks showed little progress on Donbas. Russia seeks full control of the region. Moscow controls most of Donetsk and nearly all of Luhansk. Together, the regions form Donbas.
Russia rejected key parts of the proposal. The White House said Trump held a positive call with Putin. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said Putin mentioned the alleged attack. He said the claim followed talks Washington considered successful.
Trump Responds to Alleged Incident
Ushakov said Trump reacted with shock and anger. He said Trump questioned such actions. Ushakov said the matter could affect US cooperation with Zelensky. Trump later said he initially lacked information. He said Putin briefed him afterward. Trump said the report angered him.
Asked about evidence, Trump said officials would investigate. He said the attack might not have occurred. He said Putin told him the incident happened.
