Russia on Wednesday released a video that it says proves a Ukrainian drone tried to strike President Vladimir Putin’s residence in northwest Russia.
The Russian defence ministry shared footage showing a damaged drone lying in the snow in a wooded area. Moscow claimed the unmanned aerial vehicle was shot down during the night of December 28–29 after it was allegedly launched as part of an attack aimed at Putin’s home.
However, Ukraine strongly denied the charge. Kyiv called the accusation a “lie” and said Russia was trying to “manipulate” the peace process by spreading false claims.
Russia’s claims and video release
According to Russian officials, the drone was part of a larger group of UAVs launched in a “targeted, carefully planned” operation that was “carried out in stages.” They said the drone was brought down in a forested area and that Putin’s residence was not damaged. Russia also did not say where Putin was at the time of the alleged incident.
The video released by the defence ministry shows the wreckage of the drone on the ground, covered in snow, which Moscow presented as proof of its version of events.
Kyiv and global reaction
Ukraine immediately rejected the allegation, saying Russia was making up the story to influence diplomacy. The claim came at a sensitive time, as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was holding talks with US President Donald Trump in Florida.
The European Union also dismissed Russia’s claims. It said the video appeared to be an attempt to derail peace efforts and ongoing negotiations to end the war.
Moscow hardens its position
The Kremlin described the alleged drone strike as a “terrorist act” and a “personal attack” on President Putin. Russian officials said the incident would lead Moscow to take a tougher line in peace talks with Ukraine.
Russia is now using the claim to justify its long-standing demands, including the full takeover of Ukrainian regions that it has declared as part of Russia.
Also Read: Russia-Ukraine War: Moscow Alleges Drone Attack on Putin Residence, Vows Response
Experts question Russia’s story
The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) raised doubts about Moscow’s version. It pointed out that there was no independent video or evidence usually seen in deep Ukrainian drone strikes. This lack of supporting proof, the ISW said, weakens Russia’s claim that Putin’s residence was actually targeted.