Air Defense Success Reported Despite Threats of Retaliation

Russian authorities have reported complete success in defending President Putin’s residence against an alleged drone attack while simultaneously threatening military retaliation. The apparent contradiction highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the controversy and its potential impact on peace negotiations.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russian air defense systems successfully intercepted and destroyed all 91 drones allegedly launched by Ukraine at the presidential compound in Novgorod region. Despite this claimed defensive victory, he characterized the attack attempt as state terrorism that warranted forceful response. Lavrov confirmed that Russian military planners had identified specific targets for potential counterstrike operations.
President Zelensky dismissed Russian allegations entirely, labeling them as fabricated propaganda designed to create justification for attacks on Ukrainian government buildings in Kyiv. He argued that Moscow was manufacturing a false narrative to provide cover for planned aggression while undermining diplomatic initiatives. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to peace processes and avoids provocative actions.
The alleged incident occurred over December 28-29, with Russian authorities claiming that Ukrainian forces deployed long-range unmanned aerial vehicles in a coordinated assault. Lavrov indicated that while the attack was unsuccessful in reaching its target, the attempt itself would influence Moscow’s approach to ongoing peace discussions. He suggested that Russia’s negotiating position would require reassessment.
Zelensky called on international leaders to recognize Russian manipulation tactics and speak out rather than remaining passive. He specifically mentioned work with Trump administration representatives as potentially threatened by Russian claims. The Ukrainian president referenced Moscow’s history of attacking major Ukrainian government facilities as evidence of a pattern where Russia accuses others of actions it regularly commits. He stressed that preventing Russian disruption of peace efforts requires sustained global attention and consistent public exposure of disinformation campaigns designed to shift blame and justify continued military operations.