Aboard Air Force One — President Donald Trump revealed on Sunday that United States intelligence agencies have concluded Ukraine was not responsible for targeting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s official residence in a recent alleged drone strike. This assessment directly contradicts assertions made by the Kremlin, which Trump had initially treated with serious concern.
The controversy emerged after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov asserted last week that Ukrainian forces launched multiple drones toward Putin’s Novgorod region compound, claiming Russian defense systems successfully neutralized the attack. Lavrov further criticized Kyiv for timing this alleged offensive during sensitive negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.
Trump provided clarification to journalists while returning to Washington after a two-week stay at his Florida residence. ‘Our analysis indicates something occurred in the vicinity, but we have verified that President Putin’s residence was not the intended target,’ the President stated. ‘Based on our comprehensive review, we do not believe this strike transpired as described.’
This development occurred shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s diplomatic visit to Florida, where he engaged in substantive discussions with Trump regarding a proposed 20-point peace plan to end hostilities. Zelenskyy immediately denied Russia’s allegations when they surfaced.
European officials had previously characterized Moscow’s claims as a deliberate attempt to sabotage peace efforts. Initially, however, Trump appeared to credit the Russian narrative, expressing anger during a Monday conversation with Putin regarding the alleged incident. By Wednesday, the President’s position evolved as he shared skeptical commentary from media sources questioning the Kremlin’s account.
The administration continues to pursue its commitment to broker a resolution to the Ukraine conflict, despite facing challenges in reconciling the divergent demands of both nations. While Trump and Zelenskyy reported constructive dialogue during their Mar-a-Lago meeting, Putin maintains Russia will not engage in peace talks until achieving its strategic objectives, including full control of the Donbas region and significant restrictions on Ukraine’s military capabilities.