Smoke over Kremlin sparks drone attack claims amid Ukraine conflict
Zelensky Insists Ukraine Only Defends Its Own Land
On a visit to Finland, President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear: Ukraine does not target Moscow or Vladimir Putin. “We’re only fighting to defend our territory,” he stated firmly, pushing back against accusations of aggression beyond Ukrainian borders.
Drones Downed After Explosions Near Kremlin
Early Wednesday, unverified footage showed smoke billowing over the Kremlin and a small blast near the Senate building. Russia’s presidency claimed two drones were disabled by electronic radar, insisting one drone wasn’t even at the site during the alleged attack.
Moscow Labels Incident “Terrorist Act” and Threatens Retaliation
The Russian government slammed the event as “a planned terrorist act and an assassination attempt on the president.” Officials vowed to strike back “when and where necessary.” Meanwhile, Ukraine dismissed the claims as excuses for a massive Russian offensive, and the US said it was treating Moscow’s story with caution.
Questions Over Putin’s Security and Russian Defences
The attack exposes potential holes in Putin’s famously tight security. Moscow rooftops have been dotted with anti-aircraft systems lately amid fears of aerial assaults by Ukraine or sympathisers. Despite Russian generals warning of harsh reprisals, it’s unclear if Russia can mount serious counterstrikes or if this incident will push the war into a new, fiercer phase.
