Russian officials have published video evidence of a downed drone, claiming it was part of a significant aerial assault aimed at a presidential residence used by Vladimir Putin. The defense ministry released the footage, captured at night, which appears to show a damaged drone in a snow-covered forest in the Novgorod region. Moscow asserts that 91 long-range drones were deployed but were successfully intercepted and neutralized before reaching their target or causing any damage. The Kremlin has vehemently condemned the alleged incident, labeling it a “terrorist act” and a personal attack against President Putin.
This video emerges in the wake of Russia’s accusation that Ukraine was responsible for a substantial drone operation. Earlier, the Kremlin had noted the difficulty in providing proof due to all drones being shot down. Ukraine has unequivocally rejected these accusations, describing them as false and unsupported by any credible evidence. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine and its allies investigated the claims and concluded they were fabricated. Kyiv is actively encouraging its international partners to conduct independent verifications of Russia’s statements. In separate commentary, former US President Donald Trump mentioned that Putin himself informed him of the alleged attack, distinguishing such actions from conventional military engagements.