> At a Glance
> – CIA assessment clears Ukraine of attacking Putin’s country residence
> – Ukraine aimed at a nearby military target, not the presidential home
> – Trump briefed on Wednesday, Zelenskyy rejects Russian claims
> – Why it matters: Clarifies international accusations that could affect diplomatic talks between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia
A recent CIA assessment has denied Ukraine’s alleged attempt to strike Russian President Vladimir Putin‘s country residence, revealing instead that the Ukrainian forces were targeting a military site in the same region. The findings were briefed to President Donald Trump by CIA Director John Ratcliffe and sparked a flurry of reactions from U.S., Ukrainian, and Russian officials.
CIA Assessment and Briefing
The CIA concluded that Ukraine did not attempt to attack Putin’s residence, contradicting Kremlin claims. The assessment was first reported by the Wall Street Journal and later discussed in a briefing to President Trump on Wednesday.
- Ukraine targeted a military site.
- Assessment contradicts Kremlin.
- CIA declined to comment.
Reactions from U.S., Ukraine, and Russia
President Trump expressed anger after Putin alleged a Ukrainian drone strike on his Lake Valdai residence. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted on X to deny the claim and accuse Russia of using false statements to derail peace talks.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated:
> “Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy added:
> “This alleged ‘residence strike’ story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia’s own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies.”
Timeline of Recent Events
| Day | Event |
|---|---|
| Monday | Phone call between Putin and Trump about alleged drone attack |
| Tuesday | Trump and Zelenskyy meet at Mar-a-Lago; discuss peace deal |
| Wednesday | CIA Director Ratcliffe briefs Trump on assessment |
These events unfolded over a short period, highlighting the tension and rapid developments in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Key Takeaways
- CIA clears Ukraine of attacking Putin’s residence.
- Ukrainian forces targeted a nearby military site.
- Russian claims were rebuffed by Zelenskyy and the U.S.
The CIA’s findings and the swift diplomatic responses underscore the high stakes of misinformation in the ongoing war.
