Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep concern over reports that Ukraine allegedly targeted the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for restraint and renewed focus on diplomacy to prevent further escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
PM Modi Calls for Diplomacy
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi said he was “deeply concerned” by reports of the targeting of the Russian President’s residence and stressed that diplomatic efforts remain the most viable path toward ending hostilities and achieving peace. He urged all sides to avoid actions that could undermine ongoing peace initiatives, reiterating India’s consistent stand on dialogue and diplomacy since the war began in February 2022.
Russia Alleges Drone Attack
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov alleged that Ukraine carried out a drone attack on Putin’s official residence located in the Novgorod region between Moscow and Saint Petersburg. According to Lavrov, 91 drones were intercepted and neutralised, with no damage or casualties reported. He claimed the incident could prompt Russia to revise its negotiating position in ongoing peace talks.
Ukraine Rejects Claim, Blames Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected Russia’s allegation, calling it a fabricated story aimed at justifying fresh attacks on Kyiv and undermining diplomatic efforts. Zelensky said Ukraine does not take steps that weaken diplomacy and accused Russia of using such claims to derail peace initiatives and continue military aggression.
Trump Reacts, Peace Talks Under Strain
Former US President Donald Trump said he was informed about the alleged incident by Putin and described himself as “very angry,” stating that attacking a leader’s residence was inappropriate at a sensitive stage of negotiations. Despite this, Trump said a peace deal appeared close following discussions with Zelensky, though key issues such as territorial control and the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remain unresolved. Recent sharp exchanges between Russia and Ukraine have further complicated prospects for an early peace settlement.
