Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Tuesday, i.e., December 30, extended new year greetings to his Indian counterpart, President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other world leaders.
“Vladimir Putin extended his greetings on Christmas and the upcoming New Year 2026 to heads of foreign states and governments”, read an official statement from the Kremlin.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his concern over reports of the targeting of Putin’s residence in the Novgorod Region. Russia claimed that the attacks had been unleashed by Ukraine – an allegation Kyiv has rejected.
“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 wrote in a post on ‘X’.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Ukraine launched a drone attack on the state residence of President Putin in the Novgorod Region overnight on December 29. According to Lavrov, Kyiv deployed 91 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which were successfully intercepted by the Russian army.
No casualties or property damage were reported, he added.
Zelenskyy rejects claims
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Russia’s claims, describing them as “complete fabrication”.
“Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team. We keep working together to bring peace closer. This alleged “residence strike” story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia’s own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies. Furthermore, the Russians have already targeted Kyiv in the past, including the Cabinet of Ministers building,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X.
The Ukrainian President added that the claims were an attempt to undermine his efforts towards establishing peace in the region.
