UPDATE: President Donald Trump has made a stunning reversal on his stance regarding Vladimir Putin and Ukraine following a CIA briefing that debunked allegations of a drone strike targeting one of Putin’s residences. Initially expressing outrage over the alleged attack, Trump has now cast serious doubt on the claims, citing a New York Post article he shared on Truth Social on January 1, 2025.
Trump’s shift comes amid escalating pressure on U.S.-led peace talks concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The article he reposted accused the Kremlin of fabricating the incident to undermine diplomatic efforts, declaring, “Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace.” This marks a significant departure from his earlier acceptance of Putin’s narrative.
On December 29, during a phone call, Putin claimed Ukraine launched over 90 drones at a property in the Novgorod region. Trump, speaking to journalists alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the same day, expressed his anger, stating, “I am very angry about the claim. This is not the right time.” He emphasized the difference between standard military operations and an attack on a personal residence.
However, a CIA assessment led by Director John Ratcliffe on December 31 concluded that Ukraine was not targeting Putin’s residence. The evaluation determined the drones aimed at a military installation previously struck, with no evidence suggesting an intent to hit personal properties. President Volodymyr Zelensky vehemently rejected the accusations, labeling them as a “complete fabrication.”
In a troubling escalation, Russian officials reported that 91 drones were intercepted without damage or casualties. Yet, the situation intensified with reports from Russian-installed governor Vladimir Saldo, who claimed Ukrainian drones attacked a cafe and hotel in Khorly, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 civilians and over 50 injuries. Saldo described the attack as deliberate, stating, “Many people were burned alive. A child was killed.”
Ukrainian officials have not confirmed any involvement in the Khorly incident, and pro-Ukraine sources question the credibility of evidence coming from Russian state media. Experts suggest Putin’s allegations may be a strategic move to destabilize ongoing American peace initiatives.
EU officials echoed U.S. skepticism, condemning the targeting of civilians while emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Trump’s recent comments could strain U.S.-Russia relations further; however, he has refrained from additional remarks on the matter. White House staff declined to comment on the situation, but insiders indicate the CIA‘s findings prompted Trump’s reconsideration.
With peace negotiations at a standstill, this latest episode underscores the chaotic landscape of information warfare amid the ongoing conflict. As global attention remains fixed on these developments, the urgency for clarity and resolution grows ever more critical.
