Peskov emphasized that this attack was directed not only against Putin but also against Trump's efforts to facilitate a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. "It is important to recall Zelensky's Christmas address and his statements towards Putin. This is also an attempt to undermine President Trump's efforts," he noted, adding that the Russian military is ready to take retaliatory actions.
The president's press secretary also denied reports that a drone attack on Putin's residence did not occur. "Zelensky and some Western media are trying to deny this, but it is completely untrue. It was a mass drone raid that was successfully repelled thanks to the effective work of the air defense. As for the debris, that is a question for our military," Peskov stated.
Furthermore, he noted that Russia intends to toughen its position in negotiations regarding Ukraine.
According to the Kremlin representative, a trusting dialogue remains between Putin and Trump, and such provocations will not affect the level of communication. The day before, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed that Ukraine attacked Putin's residence in Valdai and stated that, in connection with this, Russia would change its negotiation strategy. In response, Vladimir Zelensky denied these claims and noted that Russia is preparing strikes on government facilities in Kyiv. The Russian Ministry of Defense also published a press release indicating the number of drones used.
Donald Trump, who met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that day, reported that he learned about the attack from Putin in the morning and expressed dissatisfaction regarding this, reminding that he had previously halted the supply of long-range "Tomahawk" missiles to Ukraine.
