Russia Accuses Ukraine of Drone Strike on Putin’s Residence; Kyiv Dismisses Claims as “Fabrication”

By Lions Roar News Desk December 30, 2025

Tensions between Moscow and Kyiv have reached a new flashpoint following allegations by Russian officials that Ukraine attempted a massive drone strike on President Vladimir Putin’s official residence. The incident has cast a shadow over ongoing peace negotiations brokered by the United States.

The Allegations: 91 Drones Intercepted

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced on Monday that Ukrainian forces launched 91 long-range drones targeting President Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region (the Valdai residence). According to Lavrov, Russian air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed all incoming drones, preventing any casualties or structural damage.

Lavrov described the move as an act of “state terrorism” and warned that Russia would be “revising its negotiating position” in light of the attack. While he stated that Russia does not intend to withdraw from the current U.S.-led peace talks, he noted that retaliatory targets have already been identified. Adding to the accusations, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko alleged that British intelligence was involved in the “provocation.”

Kyiv’s Response: “Typical Russian Lies”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy swiftly and categorically denied the allegations, calling them a “complete fabrication.” In a statement, Zelenskyy argued that the Kremlin is manufacturing these claims to:

1. Sabotage Peace Efforts: Undermine the progress made during his recent high-stakes meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago.
2. Justify New Strikes: Create a pretext for Russia to launch intensified attacks on government buildings in Kyiv.

“Ukraine does not take steps that can undermine diplomacy,” Zelenskyy stated. “To the contrary, Russia always takes such steps.”

Impact on Peace Talks

The alleged strike comes at a critical moment. Just one day prior, President Trump and President Zelenskyy held talks in Florida, where Trump claimed that a peace deal was “closer than ever,” with approximately 95% of a 20-point peace plan reportedly agreed upon.

Following the reports of the drone attack, President Trump held a phone call with President Putin, which the White House described as “positive.” However, Trump later expressed concern, stating that such an escalation was “not the right time” as negotiators work to finalize a settlement.

As of today, December 30, the situation remains a “he-said, she-said” diplomatic standoff. While Russia insists the threat was real, Ukraine maintains it is a strategic lie designed to derail the most promising peace effort in nearly four years of war.