Cabinet of Ministers Building Attack Referenced in Ukrainian Response

President Zelensky has specifically referenced Russia’s previous attack on Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers building while responding to Moscow’s allegations about a drone strike on Putin’s residence. The Ukrainian leader used the example to illustrate what he describes as Russia’s pattern of accusing others of actions it regularly commits.
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 influence Russia’s approach to peace negotiations.
Zelensky categorically denied Russian allegations, characterizing them as fabricated lies designed to justify strikes on Ukrainian government buildings in Kyiv. He argued that Moscow was following a predictable pattern of manufacturing accusations to provide cover for planned aggression while sabotaging diplomatic initiatives. The Ukrainian president emphasized that his country’s approach consistently supports peace processes.
Russian authorities reported that air defense networks eliminated every incoming drone, preventing any damage to the presidential property. However, Lavrov maintained that the attack attempt itself warranted significant retaliation and would necessitate reassessment of Moscow’s negotiating position. He confirmed that Russian military leadership had prepared response options and identified specific targets.
Zelensky appealed to the international community to recognize the historical context of Russian conduct. He noted that Russia has previously targeted high-level Ukrainian government facilities, including the Cabinet of Ministers building, establishing a pattern of attacking civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian president stressed that this history should inform international assessment of current Russian claims. He emphasized that preventing successful Russian manipulation of peace efforts requires sustained global attention and active engagement, particularly in exposing tactics where Moscow attributes to others the very actions it undertakes itself.