Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday denied Russian claims that Ukraine launched a drone attack on one of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residences, accusing Moscow of spreading false information to undermine peace efforts.
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine carried out an overnight drone attack using 91 long-range unmanned aerial vehicles targeting Putin’s state residence in Russia’s northwestern Novgorod region. Russian authorities said all drones were intercepted and no damage or casualties were reported.
Following the allegation, Moscow said it would reassess its stance on ongoing peace negotiations. Russian officials did not disclose Putin’s whereabouts at the time of the alleged attack
Zelensky rejected the accusation, describing it as “typical Russian lies” aimed at providing justification for continued military action against Ukraine and weakening diplomatic initiatives.
“These claims are fabricated to derail peace talks and create excuses for further attacks,” Zelensky said, according to Ukrainian media.
Independent verification of Russia’s claims has not been possible, and no evidence has been presented publicly to support the allegation. Ukraine has consistently denied carrying out strikes on Russian leadership residences.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions as both sides accuse each other of escalating hostilities while publicly expressing support for diplomatic solutions. Analysts note that unverified claims and counter-claims have frequently emerged alongside key moments in negotiations since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. (Newswire)