Europe (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ukraine allegedly attacked Putin’s Novgorod residence with 91 drones; Russia intercepted all. Zelensky denied claims, warned of Kyiv threats. Putin ordered an advance in Zaporizhzhia, 15 km from the city.
As HUM English News reported, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday, Dec 29, 2025, that Ukraine attempted to attack President Vladimir Putin’s residence in northern Russia. The attack targeted the Dolgiye Borody estate in the Novgorod region, a residence used by leaders including Stalin, Khrushchev, Yeltsin, and Putin.
Lavrov said 91 long-range drones struck the site overnight, but all were destroyed by Russian air defences. He added that no casualties or damage were reported. Lavrov called the strike “state terrorism” and said retaliatory targets had already been selected.
What happened with Ukraine’s alleged attack on Putin’s residence?
The alleged attack came while Russia and Ukraine are negotiating a possible peace deal. Lavrov said Russia would continue talks, but the incident would lead to a review of its negotiating position. The statement suggests Moscow may take a firmer stance in the talks. Analysts say attacks on high-profile locations can have strategic and psychological effects.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected Russian claims that Ukraine tried to attack President Vladimir Putin’s residence. He called the allegations “another round of lies” and said Moscow was using them to undermine ongoing peace talks with the United States.
Zelensky accused Russia of preparing attacks on government buildings in Kyiv. He warned that the Kremlin was attempting to intimidate Ukraine and disrupt diplomacy. Zelensky also urged U.S. President Donald Trump to respond to the threats, seeking stronger international support amid rising tensions.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian forces to advance in the Zaporizhzhia region. Russian officials said troops were about 15 kilometres from the region’s largest city, signalling a possible escalation of the conflict in southern Ukraine.
Tensions are rising from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict that started in late February 2022, which resulted in full-scale military operations, aircraft strikes and various forms of air support from Russia against Ukraine. Military operations have continued on both sides since this time.
Since January 1st, 2022, the Zaporizhzhia region has been a major battlefield with both Russian and Ukrainian forces fighting over control of this strategically important region. There are reports that some Russian troops now occupy portions of Zaporizhzhia, while Ukrainian forces continue to perform counteroffensive operations there. The United States, along with its allies, is taking part in diplomatic efforts aimed at brokering a cease-fire and negotiating a final peace agreement through 2023 and 2025.
