Russia Threatens to Harden Its Position on Ending the War in Ukraine

Alleged drone strike on President Putin’s residence

The Kremlin announced that a Ukrainian drone allegedly targeted a residential building linked to President Vladimir V. Putin. Moscow portrayed the incident as a blatant act of aggression, demanding a stronger response from Kyiv.

Ukraine, however, denied any involvement, accusing Russian officials of manufacturing a pretext to justify continued hostilities and to derail ongoing peace initiatives. The Ukrainian foreign ministry called the claim “baseless” and suggested that Moscow was seeking to “fabricate an excuse” for refusing diplomatic negotiations.

Analysts note that the dispute comes at a critical juncture, as international mediators are pushing both sides toward a cease‑fire framework. The Kremlin’s rhetoric, combined with the alleged attack, may signal a shift toward a more uncompromising stance.

Both governments remain locked in a war of words, with the broader conflict in eastern Ukraine showing no signs of de‑escalation.