(C) NPR
MOSCOW/PARIS — The Kremlin accused Ukraine on Monday of launching a massive drone attack targeting President Vladimir Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region, a move Moscow claims will force a re-evaluation of its position in ongoing peace negotiations.
The escalation comes at a sensitive time, following a recent high-profile meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Florida, which had initially raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough to end the conflict.
The Attack and Russia's Response
According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones toward the presidential residence overnight between December 28 and 29. Lavrov stated that Russian air defenses intercepted all incoming craft, and no casualties or damage were reported.
Describing the incident as an act of "state terrorism," Lavrov warned that Russia would now "reconsider its position" regarding peace terms. While he noted that talks with the United States would continue, he emphasized that the "reckless actions" of Kyiv would not go unanswered.
"The Russian military has already determined the targets and the timing for retaliatory strikes within Ukraine," Lavrov told reporters.
Trump’s Alleged Reaction
Yuri Ushakov, a senior Kremlin foreign policy aide, revealed that President Putin briefed U.S. President Donald Trump on the attack during a phone call. According to Ushakov, Trump expressed "shock and anger" over the incident, allegedly stating he could not imagine such "crazy behavior."
Ushakov suggested that the event would shift Washington’s approach to the conflict, quoting Trump as being "thankful that Tomahawk missiles had not been provided to Ukraine." The Kremlin aide underscored that while Russia remains committed to finding a path to peace with the U.S., any previous agreements are now subject to review.
Ukraine Denounces "False Flag" Claims
Kyiv has categorically denied the allegations, labeling them a "fabrication" designed to derail the peace process. President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of lying to undermine the progress made during his talks with the American administration.
"Russia is creating a pretext for its own planned attacks on government buildings in Kyiv," Zelensky said in a message to reporters, urging the international community to respond to Russian threats.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed this sentiment, describing the claims as a "classic Russian tactic" of accusing the opponent of actions they intend to commit themselves. He urged global leaders to condemn Moscow’s "provocative rhetoric" intended to sabotage constructive peace efforts.
Uncertainty Surrounding Putin’s Location
It remains unclear if President Putin was at the residence during the alleged attack. The Kremlin reported that he maintained a normal schedule on Monday, meeting with the Governor of the Moscow region and holding briefings on the status of the "special military operation."
As both sides trade accusations of sabotage, the international community remains watchful. The alleged drone strike has added a layer of volatility to an already fragile diplomatic environment, potentially complicating the "delicate stage" of negotiations that Russian officials claim were underway.
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