Government buildings in Kyiv have become a focal point of allegations and counter-allegations following Russian claims about a Ukrainian drone attack on Putin’s residence. Ukrainian President Zelensky warns that Moscow is laying groundwork for strikes on these facilities.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Ukraine deployed 91 long-range drones against the presidential estate in Novgorod region during December 28-29. He characterized the alleged operation as state terrorism and warned that Russia would respond with military force. Lavrov confirmed that despite successful interception of all drones by air defense systems, the incident would influence Moscow’s negotiating position.
Zelensky dismissed Russian claims as complete fabrications, arguing that Moscow was creating false justification specifically for attacks on Ukrainian government buildings in Kyiv. He suggested that Russia was following a predictable pattern of manufacturing accusations to provide cover for planned aggression against civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian president emphasized that his country’s approach consistently supports peace processes.
According to Russian accounts, air defense networks successfully eliminated all incoming threats to the presidential compound. However, Lavrov indicated that the alleged attack attempt would necessitate reassessment of Russia’s approach to ongoing discussions. He confirmed that Russian military leadership had prepared response options and identified specific targets for potential strikes.
Zelensky referenced Moscow’s history of attacking Ukrainian government facilities, including the Cabinet of Ministers building, as evidence supporting his warning about current Russian intentions. He called on the international community to recognize this pattern and speak out rather than remaining passive. The Ukrainian president stressed that preventing Russian strikes on government buildings disguised as retaliation requires sustained international attention and active engagement. He emphasized that Moscow’s current allegations follow an established playbook of accusation followed by attacks on exactly the type of infrastructure Russia claims to be defending against.