Russia has threatened military retaliation against Ukraine following claims that nearly 100 drones targeted one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences in the Novgorod region, roughly 360km north of Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said air defence systems intercepted the drones, preventing any casualties. The Russian Ministry of Defence reported that 49 drones were shot down over Bryansk, one over Smolensk, and 41 near Novgorod.
The alleged strike occurred just after talks in Florida between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, aimed at advancing a peace deal. Russia accused Ukraine of trying to derail these negotiations, while Kremlin officials suggested that retaliatory strikes were already planned, though details were not disclosed.
Ukraine has strongly denied involvement, calling Russia’s claims a “complete fabrication” intended to justify further attacks and undermine diplomatic efforts. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed this, highlighting that Russia has provided no evidence for the allegations. Analysts note the accusations may serve to distract from Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
Trump and other world leaders, including India’s Narendra Modi, Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif, and the UAE, expressed concern over the alleged attack. Trump indicated he had discussed the incident with Putin but said US intelligence would verify the facts.
Russia’s claims follow previous allegations of Ukrainian attacks on Putin’s residences, all denied by Kyiv. While Russia has threatened military action, experts suggest these accusations are likely part of a strategy to strengthen Moscow’s negotiating position without derailing ongoing US-led peace efforts.
