The U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has dismissed allegations made by Russian officials that Ukraine attempted to strike President Vladimir Putin’s residence with drones, calling the claims unsubstantiated and likely intended for domestic political messaging.
Russian authorities said earlier this week that security forces intercepted what they described as a Ukrainian drone operation aimed at a residence associated with President Putin. State media framed the incident as an escalation and evidence of Western-backed “terror tactics.”
But U.S. intelligence officials pushed back strongly.
Washington: “No Evidence Supports the Claim”
According to U.S. intelligence assessments shared with media outlets, there is no verified indication that Ukraine launched an attack specifically targeting Putin or his personal residences. Officials said Russia has, on several occasions, made public accusations that cannot be independently confirmed.
A senior CIA official, speaking on background, said:
“We see nothing that suggests Ukraine attempted to assassinate President Putin. These claims fit a narrative Moscow uses periodically to justify further military actions.”
Kyiv Calls Accusation “Propaganda”
Ukrainian officials also denied involvement, stating that their operations focus on military infrastructure and logistics — not symbolic targets meant to provoke dramatic headlines.
Ukrainian presidential advisers argued that Russia frequently uses such allegations to rally support at home, increase censorship, and portray itself as a victim of international plots.
A Familiar Information Battlefield
Analysts note that information warfare remains a central feature of the conflict. Claims of attempted assassinations carry powerful emotional and political weight, especially inside Russia, where state media enjoys wide reach.
Experts warn that such accusations often precede intensified military activity or new internal security measures.
Broader Implications
The dispute comes at a sensitive moment, as international mediators attempt to lower tensions and explore potential diplomatic channels.
Western governments have repeatedly urged caution, stressing that unverified claims should not be used as justification for retaliation that could broaden the conflict.
For now, the CIA’s position is clear: there is no credible evidence that Ukraine attempted to hit Putin’s residence — and Washington views the allegation as part of Russia’s ongoing narrative campaign.
