A day after Russia reported that Ukrainian drones targeted President Vladimir Putin’s residence and parts of Crimea, international attention focused on the alleged attack. Chilling videos purportedly showing multiple drone strikes on Putin’s residence circulated online, while Russia released footage of a downed drone carrying a six-kilogram explosive.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern over the incident, urging all parties to focus on diplomatic efforts for peace.
“Deeply concerned by reports of the targeting of the residence of the President of the Russian Federation. Ongoing diplomatic efforts offer the most viable path toward ending hostilities and achieving peace. We urge all concerned to remain focused on these efforts and to avoid any actions that could undermine them,” PM Modi said on social media.
Russia Alleges Drone Strikes
Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov claimed that Ukrainian drones attacked Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region, situated between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Lavrov added that up to 91 drones were involved but were intercepted by Russian air defense systems.
Kremlin videos released online showed the intercepted drones and their payloads, intensifying global attention.
Ukraine Denies the Attack
Ukraine strongly rejected Russia’s allegations. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote on social media, “Almost a day passed, and Russia still hasn’t provided any plausible evidence to its accusations of Ukraine’s alleged ‘attack on Putin’s residence.’ And they won’t. Because there’s none. No such attack happened.”
Sybiha also expressed concern over statements from India, Pakistan, and the UAE, saying, “We were disappointed and concerned to see the statements by Emirati, Indian, and Pakistani sides expressing their concerns regarding the attack that never happened.”
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described Russia’s claims as a tactic to derail peace talks and justify further attacks on Ukraine following his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Florida.
The Strategic Context of the Drone Attack
The alleged drone attack comes amid heightened tensions in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Both sides have accused each other of provocations, and the global community remains watchful of developments that could escalate hostilities.
Experts note that misinformation and propaganda play a role in shaping perceptions during conflicts, making it crucial for international stakeholders to rely on verified reports.
PM Modi’s Call for Diplomacy
PM Modi’s statement underlines India’s preference for dialogue and peaceful resolution. While the claims of the drone strike remain unverified, Modi emphasized the importance of focusing on diplomatic channels.
His remarks echo the need for caution among nations and highlight India’s active engagement in encouraging stability in the region.