Russia claims Ukraine launched drones at a Putin residence, calling it state terrorism. Ukraine dismisses the accusation as a lie to undermine peace talks.
MOSCOW: Russia has accused Ukraine of launching dozens of drones at one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said 91 long-range drones were fired at the home in the Novgorod region between Sunday night and Monday morning, all of which were shot down.
“Given the complete degeneration of the criminal Kyiv regime, which has shifted to a policy of state terrorism, Russia’s negotiating position will be reconsidered,” Lavrov stated.
Ukraine immediately rejected the accusation as a fabrication.
President Volodymyr Zelensky called Russia’s claim “a complete fabrication” designed to undermine the peace process.
The allegation comes during sensitive negotiations over a US-drafted peace plan.
Ukraine says it has agreed to 90% of the plan, including post-war security guarantees, but the issue of territory remains unresolved.
US President Donald Trump, who spoke with Putin on Monday, said he was told of the alleged attack by the Russian leader.
“I don’t like it. It’s not good,” Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
“It’s a delicate period of time. This is not the right time,” he added.
Following his call with Trump, Putin said he remained committed to peace but would “revise” Russia’s position due to the alleged attack, according to the Kremlin.
Russia continues to push for full control of Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region and three other territories it claims.
In Kyiv, residents expressed scepticism over new security guarantees, having lived under relentless attacks for almost four years.
“Security guarantees have already been signed before — and what did that give us? Absolutely nothing,” photographer Anastasiia Pashchenko said.
Some Moscow residents told AFP they wanted the war to end, but on the Kremlin’s terms.
“Only Russia can put forward some conditions,” said 53-year-old engineer Alexei.
