Ukraine’s attempt to target the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin has annoyed Russian authorities, and a backlash is expected from Moscow.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused Ukraine of attempting an attack on President Vladimir Putin’s residence. He stated that the incident took place in northern Russia.
On Monday, Russian authorities said Ukraine launched a large drone attack overnight. According to Moscow, 91 long-range drones targeted the Novgorod region. Officials claimed Russian air defences intercepted and destroyed all drones. Lavrov said the attack caused no injuries or physical damage.
Russian officials alleged the drones targeted a presidential residence. The residence is located in the Dolgiye Borody area. Russian leaders said the site has historical significance. Several former Soviet leaders used it in the past.
Ukrainian Response and Peace Talks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the accusation outright. He said Russia fabricated the claim for strategic reasons. According to Zelenskyy, Moscow seeks justification for future attacks. He warned that Russia may target government buildings in Kyiv.
Zelenskyy also linked the allegation to ongoing peace discussions. He said the claim aimed to undermine negotiations. Therefore, Ukrainian officials dismissed the accusation as disinformation. They reiterated that Ukraine had no such operational intent.
Lavrov, however, took a strong stance in response. He said Russia would review its negotiating position.
He emphasized that Moscow would not withdraw from talks. Nonetheless, he warned of consequences for what he called provocation.
Lavrov claimed Russian forces had already selected retaliatory targets. He described the alleged drone attack as state terrorism. According to him, such actions would not go unanswered. His remarks signaled a possible escalation in rhetoric.
Military Developments and Diplomatic Contacts
It remained unclear whether Putin was present at the residence. Russian officials did not confirm his location at the time. Despite this uncertainty, the accusation drew international attention. Observers noted the timing amid sensitive diplomatic efforts.
On the same day, Putin addressed Russian military commanders. He instructed forces to continue their offensive in southern Ukraine. Specifically, he ordered progress toward full control of Zaporizhzhia. A Russian commander said troops stood 15 kilometers from the region’s largest city.
Meanwhile, diplomatic activity continued between Moscow and Washington. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed a call between leaders. She said President Donald Trump held a positive conversation with Putin. The call focused on the war in Ukraine.
No further details about the discussion were released. The conversation marked their second call in two days.
It followed Trump’s earlier meeting with Zelenskyy in Florida. Therefore, diplomatic engagement continued alongside rising tensions.
