Zelensky Refutes Russia's Claims of Drone Strike on Putin's Residence

In a strong rebuttal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Russia's assertions that Ukraine executed a drone attack on one of President Vladimir Putin's residences. He accused Moscow of fabricating these claims to sabotage ongoing peace discussions.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov alleged that Ukraine deployed 91 long-range drones in a planned night assault aimed at Putin's state residence in the Novgorod region. He claimed all drones were intercepted and eliminated by Russian air defenses, with no reported injuries or damages.

Lavrov cautioned that, due to what he termed the “final degeneration” of Ukraine's government, Russia might reassess its approach in peace negotiations. However, he reassured that Russia intends to remain engaged with the United States.

Zelensky branded the allegations as “typical Russian propaganda,” designed to rationalize continued military hostilities against Ukraine. He pointed out that Russia had previously attacked government buildings in Kyiv.

The president of Ukraine also called on the international community to voice their opposition to Russia’s maneuvers that threaten peace. He underscored that global backing is crucial for attaining lasting peace.

The accusations came just after discussions between the US and Ukraine in Florida, where Zelensky and the US President talked about a renewed strategy to conclude the conflict. Zelensky expressed optimism about ending the war by 2026, contingent on ongoing US support.

Zelensky expressed skepticism regarding Putin's intentions for peace, asserting that he distrusts the Russian leader and believes Putin has little interest in Ukraine's prosperity.

On security guarantees, Zelensky mentioned the US has proposed assurances for a 15-year period, with negotiations reportedly nearing a conclusion. Nevertheless, significant challenges like territorial disputes and the status of the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and Donbas region remain unresolved.

At present, Russia occupies about 75% of Donetsk and nearly all of Luhansk, which are the two regions making up Donbas. Moscow has dismissed key elements of the proposed peace plan, further complicating resolution efforts.

Following the US-Ukraine discussions, the White House announced a “positive call” between the US President and Putin. A Kremlin advisor indicated that Putin showed concern over the so-called drone attack, which coincided with what the US described as a successful round of negotiations.

The US President expressed shock and anger at the news of the incident, cautioning that it might influence the US’s stance on engagement with Zelensky. Initially unsure, he later confirmed receiving information about the attack from Putin and stated that investigations would be launched.