Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has claimed that a Ukrainian drone attack targeted one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences in the Novgorod region, a claim that was immediately denied by Ukraine.
Lavrov says the attack, which reportedly occurred on Monday, caused no damage or casualties.
However, he warns Russia may revise its negotiating position in ongoing peace talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine and says targets have already been selected for possible retaliatory strikes.
The residence is believed to be the heavily fortified Valdai presidential compound located near Lake Valdai in northwestern Russia.
Lavrov did not claim that President Putin was present at the site at the time of the incident.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismisses the accusation as a “complete fabrication,” accusing Russia of spreading false information to justify further military action and prolong the conflict.
Zelensky says the claim surfaced a day after his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Florida.
Although the meeting with Trump did not result in a major breakthrough, Zelensky says both leaders agreed on a revised peace proposal that includes US security guarantees for Ukraine for 15 years, with an option to extend.
In a statement posted on social media, Zelensky says Russia was using “dangerous statements” to undermine diplomatic efforts and stressed that international intelligence agencies should rely on verified information.
Lavrov also claims Russian air defences shot down 91 drones and insists Russia does not intend to withdraw from negotiations to end the war.
According to Russian state media, President Putin informed President Trump of the alleged drone attack during a phone call on Monday, saying Russia is reviewing its stance on peace talks as a result.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov reportedly says Trump was “shocked” and “outraged” by the information shared.
The White House confirms President Trump held a call with President Putin, describing it as positive, but did not provide details or comment on the drone attack claim.
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue amid heightened tensions.
Source: CNN
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations
