Russian authorities have leveled serious accusations against Ukraine, claiming that Kyiv launched a coordinated drone assault on President Putin’s official residence in an act Moscow describes as state terrorism. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov detailed the alleged operation, stating that 91 long-range drones were deployed over two days targeting the presidential compound in Novgorod region.
President Zelensky responded by categorically denying Ukrainian involvement and characterizing Russian claims as fabricated propaganda. He suggested that Moscow was creating a false narrative to justify planned military strikes on Ukrainian government infrastructure in Kyiv. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine remains focused on diplomatic solutions and avoids provocative actions that could undermine peace initiatives.
According to Russian accounts, air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed all incoming drones before they could reach their intended target. Despite this claimed defensive success, Lavrov warned that the attack attempt demanded forceful retaliation. He confirmed that Russian military leadership had identified specific targets for counterstrike operations, though he provided no additional details about potential timing or locations.
The controversy has emerged during a particularly sensitive period for diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict. Lavrov stated that the alleged attack would necessarily influence Russia’s approach to ongoing peace discussions, though Moscow would continue engaging in negotiations. He suggested that Russia’s position and expectations would need reassessment in light of what he characterized as Ukrainian escalation.
Zelensky appealed to the international community not to remain silent in the face of Russian accusations. He warned that Moscow was attempting to undermine diplomatic progress, particularly work involving Trump administration representatives. The Ukrainian president highlighted Russia’s history of attacking Ukrainian government buildings, including the Cabinet of Ministers, arguing that Moscow consistently accuses others of actions it regularly commits itself. He stressed that preventing Russian disruption of peace processes requires active international engagement and consistent exposure of Moscow’s disinformation tactics.