Anna Hartz
International tensions between Russia and Ukraine have escalated again, drawing attention worldwide.
Claims and counterclaims about attacks, threats, and diplomacy dominate the headlines. As both sides exchange statements, the question of peace and the credibility of reports has become central.
Zelensky Denies Allegations
On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine attempted to attack President Vladimir Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region, reports Digi24. Lavrov said the attack took place on the night of December 28–29 and involved 91 long-range drones. He warned that such actions would not go unanswered. It was not immediately clear if Putin was at the residence at the time.
The statement was quickly denied by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He called the story a fabrication designed to justify further Russian attacks on Ukraine. Zelensky said Russia was using the claim to distract the public from its own attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Kiev.
“Russia is at it again, using dangerous rhetoric to undermine all the achievements of our joint diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team,” Zelensky said. He added that Ukraine does not take measures that harm diplomacy. According to him, Russia is the party that consistently undermines efforts for lasting peace.
In previous weeks, Russian forces have targeted Kiev, including the Cabinet of Ministers building. Ukrainian officials insist that they continue to work toward peace despite the ongoing attacks.
A Possible Phone Call
Meanwhile, Moscow officials, including Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, said there are currently no talks planned between Putin and Zelensky. Reports in Western media suggested that discussions with US President Donald Trump could open the possibility of a phone conversation between the two leaders. Peskov stated that such a conversation is not under discussion at the moment.
US President Trump said on Sunday, December 28, that a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine is “very close.” He noted that differences remain regarding the future status of the Donbas region. Analysts say these diplomatic efforts face challenges, with claims like the alleged attack on Putin’s residence complicating the negotiations.
For now, both sides continue to exchange statements, each accusing the other of fabrications and aggression. The situation remains tense, with questions about the credibility of reports and the prospects for a peace deal dominating international attention.
The coming days will be critical in understanding whether diplomacy can advance or if the conflict will escalate further.
Sources: Digi24
