In recent news, Russia has accused Ukraine of attempting to kill President Vladimir Putin. It claims that it shot down two drones that were used in the alleged attack. The Kremlin added that it considers the alleged attack “a planned terrorist act and an attempt on the life of the President of the Russian Federation.” Putin was not injured, and there was no material damage to the Kremlin building. However, this accusation has further escalated the already tense situation between Russia and Ukraine.
Russia’s Allegations
Russia alleges that two unmanned vehicles were aimed at the Kremlin, and the devices were put out of action. The Russian president was not on the premises at the time of the attempted drone attack, the Kremlin added. However, Russia has reserved the right to retaliate, which suggests that Moscow might use the alleged incident to justify a further escalation in the 14-month-old war with Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Response
Ukraine has said that it has “nothing to do” with the alleged Kremlin drone attack. Presidential spokesman Mikhaylo Podolyak said, “Ukraine does not attack the Kremlin because, firstly, that does not solve any military aims.” Kyiv has not taken official responsibility for drone and other attacks on Russian energy, logistics, and military facilities. However, they have often made cryptic or sarcastic comments welcoming them as they resist what they call a Russian war of conquest.
Videos Circulating on Social Media
An unverified video circulating on Russian social media, including the channel of the military news outlet Zvezda, showed pale smoke rising behind the main Kremlin Palace in the walled citadel after the purported incident. Another showed one of the drones, right above the dome of the presidential palace, being shot down by Russia.
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Moscow’s Mayor Announces Ban on Unauthorized Drone Flights
Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, has announced a ban on unauthorized drone flights over the Russian capital, just as the news of drones targeting Putin surfaced. In a statement, he said drone flights would be prohibited unless a special permit had been obtained from “government authorities.” He added that the ban was meant to prevent unauthorized drone flights that could “obstruct the work of law enforcement.”
Victory Day Parade to Proceed Despite the Incident
Meanwhile, the Kremlin said that the May 9 Victory Day parade would go ahead in Moscow despite the incident, the state-run TASS news agency reported. Victory Day is a key anniversary for Putin, who often evokes the spirit and sacrifice that helped the Soviet Union repel Hitler’s Nazis at a cost of some 27 million lives to boost patriotic sentiment. Earlier, the Kremlin said the Russian security services are working to ensure that Moscow’s annual Victory Day parade across Red Square on May 9 can go ahead safely despite the risk of a threat from Ukraine.
Conclusion
The accusation made by Russia against Ukraine regarding the alleged drone attack on President Putin has further escalated the already tense situation between the two countries. However, Ukraine denies any involvement in the alleged attack. The ban on unauthorized drone flights imposed by Moscow’s mayor could lead to stricter regulations for drone usage in the future.
Source: NDTV
