Productive Discussions Between Trump and Zelensky Now at Risk

Productive discussions between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky about ending the war now face serious risks following allegations of a drone attack on Vladimir Putin’s residence. Trump expressed his anger after Putin informed him about the alleged incident.
Russian officials claim that Ukraine launched 91 long-range drones toward Putin’s Novgorod region property, all of which were intercepted by air defense systems. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov characterized the alleged attempt as “state terrorism” and warned of consequences.
Trump’s remarks to reporters emphasized his displeasure with what he viewed as an attack on a leader’s personal residence during peace negotiations. He acknowledged Ukraine’s military operations but suggested that targeting a world leader’s home represents a different level of aggression that threatens the progress made during his discussions with Zelensky.
President Zelensky categorically rejected the allegations as Russian propaganda. He accused Moscow of fabricating the incident to justify planned strikes against Ukrainian government buildings and to undermine the productive dialogue he had established with Trump’s administration.
The dispute emerged just hours after both leaders had described their meetings as constructive. The Kremlin’s announcement that Russia would reassess negotiations following Trump’s call with Putin indicates how quickly the situation has deteriorated.