Two days after a significant drone incident targeted one of President Vladimir Putin's secretive residences, Russia has released video evidence it claims proves an attack orchestrated by Ukraine. The alleged strike occurred on the night of December 29, targeting the Russian leader's home in the Novgorod region.
The Russian Claim and Evidence
Russian authorities have termed the incident a “terrorist attack” that was “targeted, carefully planned and carried out in stages.” The released footage, shot in a dark, snow-covered forest, shows a damaged drone. Moscow states this unmanned aerial vehicle was equipped with a 6 kg explosive charge. Notably, Russia has not clarified whether President Putin was present at the residence during the attack, which it says happened between December 28 and 29.
Ukraine's Firm Denial and International Reactions
Ukraine has vehemently rejected the accusations. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called the allegation a “lie” in a post on social media platform X. “Almost a day passed and Russia still hasn't provided any plausible evidence... And they won't. Because there's none. No such attack happened,” Sybiga stated. The country has urged other nations not to legitimize Russia's claims.
The incident has drawn reactions from Western leaders. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need for transparency in the peace process, while EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas accused Moscow of making “unfounded claims” aimed at derailing peace efforts.
A Stark Warning from Donald Trump
Adding a significant geopolitical dimension, former US President Donald Trump commented on the situation, revealing he was informed directly by President Putin. Trump, describing himself as “very angry,” warned that such an attack, if true, was detrimental to peace negotiations. “It's one thing to be offensive because they're offensive. It's another thing to attack his house. It’s not the right time to do any of that,” he told reporters, suggesting a clear escalation in tactics.
The event underscores the ongoing shadow war between the two nations, where accusations of strikes on high-profile symbolic targets add a new layer of tension and diplomatic complexity, even as the frontline conflict continues.
