PM Modi flays alleged attack on Putin’s residence; says diplomacy only way to end Russia-Ukraine conflict
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed serious concern over reports claiming an attempted attack on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s official residence, underlining that diplomacy remains the only sustainable way to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Responding to the developments, Modi warned against actions that could further inflame tensions in an already volatile situation. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was “deeply concerned” by reports of the targeting of the Russian President’s residence and stressed that ongoing diplomatic initiatives offer the most credible path towards peace. He urged all parties involved to avoid steps that could derail these efforts.
Modi’s remarks came after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov alleged that Ukraine attempted to strike Putin’s state residence in Russia’s Novgorod region. According to Lavrov, the alleged incident could have serious implications for Moscow’s stance on future negotiations.
The Russian minister claimed that Ukraine launched as many as 91 long-range drones over December 28 and 29, all of which were intercepted and destroyed by Russian air defence systems. He described the alleged operation as “reckless” and termed it an act of “state terrorism,” warning that Russia would not leave it unanswered. It remains unclear whether President Putin was present at the residence at the time.
The development also drew a sharp reaction from US President Donald Trump, who is attempting to broker a peace deal between the two warring nations. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said he was “very angry” after learning about the alleged attack from Putin during a phone conversation between the two leaders.
“It’s one thing to be offensive in a war, but attacking someone’s house crosses a line. This is not the right time for such actions,” Trump said.
China, meanwhile, called for restraint, urging all sides to prevent further escalation. A spokesperson for Beijing’s foreign ministry said parties should adhere to the principle of avoiding spillover effects and prevent the conflict from widening, according to Reuters.
Ukraine, however, strongly denied Moscow’s claims. President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the allegations as “completely fabricated,” accusing Russia of lacking genuine intent to take meaningful steps towards ending the war.
- With inputs from agencies
