Overview
- Russia alleges Ukraine sent about 91 long‑range drones toward Putin’s Waldai residence, yet its own accounts shifted and typical open‑source indicators such as satellite fire signatures or wreckage imagery have not surfaced.
- Ukraine categorically denies any attack, with President Volodymyr Zelensky calling the claim a lie and Ukrainian intelligence dismissing Moscow’s displayed debris as fabricated.
- U.S. outlets report the CIA assessed that Ukraine did not target Putin or his residences, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe briefed President Donald Trump on the finding.
- Trump first condemned the supposed strike after a call with Putin, then signaled a sharper stance by sharing an article arguing Russia is blocking a peace deal.
- The Kremlin says it will harden its negotiating position and threatens retaliation, raising concerns that the disputed episode will further undercut U.S.-mediated talks.