DUBAI: The Russian authorities have accused the neighbouring country of Ukraine of a drone attack on the official residence of President Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod area. The government of Russia claims that Ukraine discharged 91 long-range drones at the residence from the night between December 28 and 29.
The head of the Russian Foreign Ministry Sergey Lavrov declared that the armed forces of Russia had intercepted and obliterated all 91 drones that were launched by Ukraine. He branded the drone assault as “state terrorism” and cautioned that such reckless moves would draw retaliatory measures from Russia.
Lavrov’s argument that the assault was a part of the dialogue over a possible peace treaty and that it might affect Russia’s view of the negotiations was probably persuasive.
Denial of Accusations by Ukrainian President
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky answered the Russian indictments, saying that the allegations were wrong and were intended to hurt him politically. He accused Russia of trying to chase away the peace negotiations through its lies and urged the world not to sit back but to act in response to the threats from Russia.
In his statement, Zelensky said that it should not be at the cost of the peace process that Russia is so desperately trying to kill.
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US President Trump: Russia-Ukraine peace deal near completion
On December 16, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that a ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine is nearing completion, indicating a conclusion to the current conflict.
Addressing reporters at the White House, President Trump announced that conversations have taken place between European officials and that the U.S. Peace initiative has garnered complete backing from European leaders.
“We have witnessed advancement following the recent discussions in Berlin,” Trump stated, noting that conversations have also involved Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the possible ceasefire.
Moreover, European leaders have concurred that any security assurances offered to Ukraine by the West must involve participation in the arrangement.
However, leaders have noted that the issue of territorial control remains a major obstacle in the ongoing negotiations.
