PM Modi 'Deeply Concerned' Over Reports of Attack on Putin’s Residence, Urges Restraint & Dialogue

New Delhi: A new turn has emerged in the Russia-Ukraine War. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has alleged that on the night of 28-29 December, Ukraine fired 91 long-range drones to target President Vladimir Putin's Novgorod residence. It is claimed that Russia's air defense system dropped all the drones and there was no damage. But Ukraine rejected this claim outright. Zelensky said Russia was spreading a “completely false narrative” to back out of peace talks and create an environment for further attacks.

Why did PM Modi express concern?

PM Modi posted on Twitter that he is deeply saddened by the news of targeting the Russian President's residence. Diplomatic efforts are the best way to end the war. Everyone should focus on these efforts and not take any step that would weaken them. Modi's statement is balanced. Neither condemned Russia nor supported Ukraine. India's neutral policy was visible. Deep ties with Russia, but also appealed for peace. Trump also got 'angry' but said, "There may not have been an attack at all."

Why did Russia call the attack a 'terrorist attack'?

Lavrov called it 'state terrorism' and said that Russia will now review its stance in peace negotiations. Targets for retaliatory strikes have been selected. Putin told Trump on the phone that Trump was 'shocked and outraged.' Russia says that this attack took place during peace talks so that the negotiations could be derailed. Valdai Residence is Putin's high-security private retreat. Earlier also there were claims of a drone attack on the Kremlin.  

Why did Ukraine call it a lie?

Zelensky said that this is a complete fabrication. Russia is looking for an excuse to justify more attacks on Ukraine. Ukraine says it only strikes military targets. When this claim came just after the Zelensky-Trump meeting, suspicion increased. Ukraine appealed to the international community not to fall for Russia's words.

What next? Will peace talks survive, or will war increase?

The Trump administration is dealing with Ukraine, but Russia's stance has become tough. Lavrov said that the negotiating position will be reviewed. There is a possibility of more strikes on Ukraine. Pakistan condemned Russia, but most countries are silent. Modi's appeal shows that India wants to be a peace broker. But what the truth is in the claims of both sides is not clear yet. The war is going on for a long time; such claims increase tension. Hope diplomacy wins, not violence. The eyes of the world are now on Trump-Putin-Zelensky.