Russia plans to take a tougher stance in the Ukraine negotiations following an alleged attack on the Russian presidential residence in the Novgorod Region. Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the diplomatic repercussions of the incident would lead to a hardening of Russia’s negotiating position. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky refuted the accusation, labeling it as “another lie from the Russian Federation.”
The attack, which Russia claims was orchestrated by Ukraine, was allegedly aimed at disrupting the negotiation process to resolve the Ukrainian conflict. Despite this, Russia has affirmed its commitment to continuing the dialogue, particularly with the United States. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov disclosed that Kyiv launched an overnight attack involving 91 long-range strike drones on the presidential residence in Novgorod, all of which were intercepted without any casualties or damage reported.
During a meeting with Zelensky, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about nearing a peace deal to end the Ukraine crisis. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the progress in US-Ukraine negotiations with Trump over a phone call. Putin reiterated Russia’s dedication to working closely with the US to seek pathways towards peace. Yuri Ushakov, a Russian Presidential Aide, revealed that Trump was shocked by the news of the drone attack, expressing disbelief at Ukraine’s actions.
