Global Silence Enables Russian Manipulation, Zelensky Warns

President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a stark warning that global silence in the face of Russian allegations effectively enables Moscow to continue manipulating peace efforts. The Ukrainian leader’s comments came in response to Russian claims about a Ukrainian drone attack on Putin’s residence.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused Ukraine of launching 91 long-range drones at the presidential compound in Novgorod region over December 28-29. He labeled the alleged operation as state terrorism and confirmed that while Russian air defenses successfully intercepted all threats, Moscow would implement military countermeasures. Lavrov indicated that the incident would necessitate reassessment of Russia’s negotiating position.
Zelensky categorically denied Russian allegations, characterizing them as fabricated propaganda designed to create justification for strikes on Ukrainian government buildings in Kyiv. He argued that Moscow was deliberately attempting to sabotage diplomatic progress, particularly efforts involving Trump administration representatives. The Ukrainian president emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to supporting peace initiatives.
According to Russian accounts, air defense systems eliminated all incoming drones before they could reach the presidential property. However, Lavrov maintained that the attack attempt warranted significant retaliation and would influence Moscow’s approach to ongoing peace discussions. He confirmed that Russian military planners had identified specific targets for potential strike operations.
Zelensky made a direct appeal to the international community, stressing that the world cannot afford to remain silent in the current circumstances. He argued that passive observation of competing narratives effectively enables Russian manipulation of diplomatic processes. The Ukrainian president referenced Moscow’s history of attacking Ukrainian government facilities as evidence of a pattern where Russia accuses others of actions it regularly commits. He emphasized that preventing successful Russian disruption of peace efforts requires sustained global attention, active engagement, and consistent public exposure of manipulation tactics designed to shift blame and justify continued military operations.