India Voices Concern Over Ukraine’s Reported Attack on Putin’s Residence
On Tuesday, India expressed its worries regarding reports that Ukraine may have targeted President Vladimir Putin’s residence in northwestern Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for all parties to concentrate on peaceful diplomatic solutions and to refrain from actions that could hinder these efforts.
According to Russia, Ukraine allegedly attempted to attack Putin’s official residence in the Novgorod region using 91 long-range drones. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed these claims made by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, labeling them false.
Modi took to social media to voice his concern, stating, “We are deeply worried about the reports regarding the president’s residence. Ongoing diplomatic efforts are crucial for ending hostilities and achieving peace. We urge everyone to stay focused on these initiatives and avoid actions that could disrupt them.”
Since the beginning of the conflict in February 2022, Modi has advocated for dialogue over warfare, insisting that peace cannot be achieved on the battlefield. He has encouraged both Putin and Zelensky to seek resolutions through conversation, reinforcing that this is not a time for war.
Lavrov stated that the UAVs sent by Ukraine were intercepted by Russian air defenses with no injuries or damage reported. However, he mentioned that Russia would reconsider its negotiation stance in light of the incident.
The exact location of Putin during the reported attack remains unclear. Zelensky labeled Lavrov’s account as “typical Russian lies,” arguing that Ukraine does not engage in activities that could undermine diplomatic efforts, and accused Russia of fabricating the attack to justify further military actions against Ukraine.
“This supposed ‘residence strike’ is a complete invention aimed at excusing additional assaults on Ukraine,” Zelensky stated, noting that Ukraine has been previously targeted by Russia.
India has been under increasing pressure from the United States to reduce its imports of Russian oil and military equipment, particularly as frustrations grow over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, India managed to assert its independent foreign policy during a recent summit with Putin, where both nations agreed on measures to enhance economic ties, including plans to address trade imbalances and secure energy needs.
