Russia claimed on 29 December 2025 that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones targeting one of President Vladimir Putin’s residences in the Novgorod region, an allegation Kyiv swiftly rejected as fabricated to undermine ongoing peace negotiations.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that the attempted strike occurred overnight into 29 December on the presidential complex northwest of Moscow, with all drones destroyed by air defences. He described it as an act of “state terrorism” and announced that “Russia’s negotiating position will be revised” in response, though Moscow would not abandon talks.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov revealed that Putin informed US President Donald Trump of the incident during a phone call on 29 December, prompting a reassessment of previously discussed agreements. The accusation surfaced shortly after Trump’s meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy aimed at advancing a settlement to end the war.
Zelenskyy dismissed the claim, accusing Moscow of inventing a pretext to justify further strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure and government sites. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed this, asserting that “the fabricated Russian claims… are intended to create a pretext… for Russia’s further attacks against Ukraine, as well as to undermine… the peace process”. Kyiv stressed it targets only legitimate military objectives.
No evidence was presented by Russian officials to substantiate the drone assault. Regional authorities reported intercepting drones but did not initially link them to the presidential site.
The timing has cast doubt on diplomatic momentum, following recent discussions involving territorial concessions and ceasefires. Analysts note the claim provides Moscow leverage to harden its demands without fully derailing US-mediated efforts.
Previous incidents, such as the 2023 drone explosions over the Kremlin, were similarly blamed on Ukraine without independent verification. The Novgorod residence, a secluded estate, has long been associated with Putin’s private retreats.
Trump expressed anger upon hearing Putin’s account but later acknowledged uncertainty after Ukraine’s denial. The episode highlights persistent mistrust complicating prospects for resolution.
As talks continue, focus shifts to whether Russia follows through on revising its stance and potential retaliatory actions. Both sides affirm commitment to dialogue, yet the unsubstantiated accusation risks prolonging hostilities into the new year.
