Russia claims 91 Ukrainian drones were intercepted in Novgorod region

MOSCOW: Russia has claimed that its military successfully thwarted a Ukrainian drone attack near the residence of President Vladimir Putin, asserting that the security situation remained fully under control throughout the incident.

Claimed Drone Interception

According to a statement by Russia’s Foreign Minister, the alleged attack occurred during the night of December 29 in the Novgorod region, where Ukraine reportedly launched 91 drones. Russian air defense systems, the statement said, responded swiftly and destroyed all incoming drones before they could reach their targets.

Russian authorities emphasized that President Putin’s residence sustained no damage, and no casualties were reported.

Security Situation ‘Fully Under Control’

The Foreign Minister stressed that Russia’s security apparatus remained fully operational during the incident, adding that protective measures around sensitive sites functioned as intended.

However, Moscow warned that the alleged attack would prompt a reassessment of its negotiating strategy with Ukraine, signaling possible diplomatic repercussions.

Putin–Trump Phone Call

Meanwhile, the Kremlin disclosed details of a telephone conversation between President Vladimir Putin and former US President Donald Trump, during which Putin reportedly briefed Trump on the alleged drone attack near his residence.

According to the Kremlin, Putin reaffirmed Russia’s intention to continue working with the United States toward establishing peace, despite escalating tensions.

US Reaction

The Kremlin said former President Trump expressed surprise upon learning about the incident and suggested that such developments could impact US policy and relations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The claims have not yet been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from Ukrainian officials regarding the allegations.