Russia has threatened retaliation after accusing Ukraine of attempting to attack President Vladimir Putin’s residence, casting uncertainty over fragile peace efforts in the ongoing Ukraine war. US President Donald Trump stated that Putin informed him about the alleged attack during a phone call, expressing his anger while suggesting an end to the conflict might be close. Trump had previously met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, indicating that talks to end the war were progressing significantly, despite unresolved territorial disputes.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that 91 long-range drones were intercepted near Putin’s residence in Novgorod on December 28-29, describing the alleged incident as “state terrorism.” He warned that such reckless actions would not go unanswered. However, Ukrainian President Zelensky dismissed these claims as a “complete fabrication,” suggesting Moscow was preparing the groundwork for further strikes, potentially targeting the capital and government buildings.
Featured snippet paragraph: Russia accused Ukraine of a drone attack on Vladimir Putin’s residence, a claim Kyiv denies as a “complete fabrication.” Russia vowed retaliation, while Ukraine suggested it was a ploy to justify further strikes. The incident occurred amid ongoing peace talks, adding tension to the conflict.
Major Oleh Shyriaiev, a decorated Ukrainian commander, revealed that he often intercepts communications detailing orders from Russian military leaders to kill surrendering troops. Evidence of alleged war crimes by Russian forces has reportedly grown in recent months, coinciding with intensified attacks on Ukraine even as peace discussions continue between the US, European nations, and Russia.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has asserted that the West must acknowledge Russia’s strategic initiative in Ukraine as peace talks progress. In an interview, Lavrov stated that Moscow awaits Washington’s response to Putin’s proposal for extending strategic arms control pact limits. He emphasized that negotiations must align with battlefield realities, noting Russia’s control over approximately 19% of Ukrainian territory.
Ukrainians have been enduring prolonged power outages in communal “resilience” shelters following recent Russian air strikes. In Vyshhorod, near Kyiv, residents like Olena Pazhydaieva have been without electricity and heating, spending their days in equipped shelters to work and charge devices. These shelters, part of a national network, are crucial for maintaining connectivity amidst widespread damage to energy infrastructure.
US President Donald Trump described his call with Vladimir Putin as productive, expressing optimism that certain issues could be resolved to bring about peace. He mentioned that Ukraine and the US had outlined a bilateral security agreement, though Trump indicated it was not yet finalized. Lavrov reiterated Russia’s dominant position on the battlefield, suggesting that any negotiations must reflect this reality.
Russia has signaled a more hardline stance on ending the war. Lavrov’s accusation of a drone attack on Putin’s residence, which he labeled “state terrorism,” was met with strong denial from Ukraine. Zelensky suggested this was a Russian tactic to disrupt progress in US-Ukraine relations.
Despite the accusations, Russia indicated it would review its negotiating stance but not withdraw from talks. Zelensky, however, expressed distrust in Putin, stating that the Russian president did not desire success for Ukraine. Key unresolved issues in Ukraine’s peace proposal include control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station and the status of the Donbas region.
President Vladimir Putin has formally enacted amendments allowing Russia to disregard judgments from foreign and international criminal courts. This move comes as Ukraine and European nations intensify efforts to penalize Moscow for its actions in Ukraine.
Putin has warned that Russia will achieve its goals by force if Ukraine does not opt for a peaceful resolution. This statement underscores Russia’s determination to pursue its objectives through military means if diplomatic avenues are perceived as ineffective.
What is the current status of the Ukraine war? Russia has accused Ukraine of a drone attack on Putin’s residence, a claim Ukraine denies. This has intensified tensions amid ongoing peace talks. Russia also claims to hold the strategic initiative on the battlefield, controlling approximately 19% of Ukrainian territory, while Ukraine faces ongoing energy infrastructure attacks and power outages.
