Kremlin Signals Harder Line After Alleged Drone Attack Incident

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Tuesday, December 30th, 2025

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rki.news
The Kremlin has signaled a tougher stance in ongoing negotiations over the Ukraine conflict following what it described as a Ukrainian drone attack targeting the Russian presidential residence in the Novgorod region.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the alleged incident would have diplomatic consequences, including a hardening of Russia’s position in talks aimed at ending the conflict. He said the attack appeared intended to disrupt negotiations, while stressing that Russia does not intend to withdraw from dialogue.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the accusation, describing it as false and part of what he called a pattern of misinformation. Ukrainian authorities have denied carrying out any attack on the Russian presidential residence.
According to Russian officials, the incident involved a large overnight drone operation. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said dozens of long range drones were launched toward the Novgorod region but were intercepted by air defenses, with no casualties or material damage reported.
Despite rising tensions, Moscow said it remains engaged in diplomatic efforts, particularly in discussions involving the United States. Russian officials confirmed recent high level contacts focused on exploring possible pathways toward de escalation and a negotiated settlement.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently held meetings with Ukrainian leadership and expressed cautious optimism about progress toward a peace agreement. Russian President Vladimir Putin also discussed the state of negotiations with Trump, reaffirming Moscow’s willingness to continue cooperation.
Russian officials said the alleged attack has raised serious concerns and could complicate diplomacy, underscoring the fragility of current efforts to end the conflict.