Former US President Donald Trump has reacted sharply to reports claiming that Ukraine targeted Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residence with drones. Trump made these remarks while speaking to the media ahead of his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on Monday.
“Putin Himself Called Me,” Says Trump
According to Trump, President Vladimir Putin personally called him and informed him about the alleged drone attack. Trump stated that a group of Ukrainian drones had targeted Putin’s residence.
“Do you know who told me this? President Putin himself told me this morning. He said he was attacked. It’s not good at all. I’m very angry,” Trump told reporters. However, Trump also acknowledged that the information could be inaccurate and said the situation required careful verification.
Trump Warns Against Attacks on Residences
While commenting on the ongoing conflict, Trump said that although attacks occur during war, targeting a leader’s residence crosses a line. Moreover, he stressed that this was not the right time for such actions, as tensions remain extremely high.
Russia Claims 91 Drones Used in Attack
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed that Ukraine attempted to attack Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region, west of Moscow, using 91 long-range drones on December 28 and 29. He added that Russian air defence systems successfully intercepted and destroyed all drones.
Zelensky Dismisses Russian Allegations
On the other hand, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected Russia’s claims outright. He described the allegations as blatant lies, further intensifying the war of words between the two sides.
Trump Signals Hope for Peace Talks
Despite rising tensions, Trump said his recent conversations with Putin were productive. He revealed that he spoke to the Russian leader twice within 24 hours. Additionally, Trump expressed confidence that resolving key issues could pave the way for peace. Notably, after meeting Zelenskyy on Sunday, Trump claimed both sides were close to an agreement to end the war, even as Putin ordered his forces to secure full control of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region.
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