UPDATE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has forcefully rejected accusations of Ukraine’s involvement in an alleged drone attack on Russian President Vladimir Putin‘s private residence. This development is unfolding amid heightened tensions between the two nations, with Zelensky branding the claims as “typical Russian lies” aimed at undermining diplomatic efforts.
In a statement made just hours ago, Zelensky accused Moscow of using “dangerous statements” to justify further aggression against Ukraine, including potential strikes on Kyiv. “This alleged ‘residence strike’ story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine,” he asserted, warning of an imminent assault on a major government facility similar to the September bombardment of the Ukrainian cabinet minister’s building.
The controversy emerged following a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on Monday, October 23. During this meeting, Trump expressed his shock upon learning about the alleged attack, which Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed was an attempt by Ukraine to strike Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region, south of St. Petersburg. Trump, who described his recent conversation with Putin as “very good,” emphasized the delicacy of the current geopolitical climate, stating, “It’s not the right time to do any of that.”
In response to the alleged drone strike, Lavrov indicated that Russia’s negotiating approach would be reassessed. “Such reckless actions will not go unanswered,” he warned, revealing that Russian air defenses had intercepted an astonishing 91 incoming drones recently.
The escalating rhetoric comes as both nations navigate a complex landscape of diplomacy amid ongoing conflict. Zelensky’s firm denial and Trump’s concerns underscore the fragile state of relations, with potential repercussions for ongoing peace talks with the U.S.
As this story develops, analysts are closely monitoring the situation for further updates on Russia’s military response and Ukraine’s strategic positioning. The international community is urged to prepare for possible ramifications that could arise from this incident.
Stay tuned for more breaking news as this situation continues to unfold.
