Russia has accused Ukraine of launching a large-scale drone attack targeting the residence of President Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod region, claiming that 91 drones were used in the operation and were all intercepted by Russian air defence systems.
According to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the alleged attack took place overnight between Sunday and Monday. Speaking to Russian state media, Lavrov said the incident occurred during a period of ongoing diplomatic engagement between Russia and the United States regarding a potential settlement to the Ukraine conflict.
“We draw attention to the fact that this action was carried out during intensive negotiations between Russia and the United States,” Lavrov was quoted as saying. He added that Russia considers the move “reckless” and warned that it would not go unanswered. According to him, Russian armed forces have already identified potential targets and determined the timing for possible retaliatory strikes.
Lavrov also claimed that Russia would reassess its negotiating position, accusing Ukraine of shifting toward what he described as a policy of “state terrorism.”
Russian media further reported that President Vladimir Putin had informed US President Donald Trump about the alleged attack and that both sides agreed to continue discussions.
Ukraine, however, strongly denied the accusations. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the claims as fabricated and aimed at undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts.
“Russia is once again using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “This alleged ‘residence strike’ story is a complete fabrication intended to justify further attacks on Ukraine, including Kyiv.”
Zelenskyy added that Russia has previously targeted Ukrainian government buildings, including the Cabinet of Ministers, and accused Moscow of spreading disinformation to justify continued military aggression.
“It is critical that the world does not remain silent,” he said. “We cannot allow Russia to sabotage efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace.”
The claims and counterclaims come amid heightened tensions and ongoing uncertainty over the future of negotiations to end the war.