At a Glance
- CIA says Ukraine did not target Putin’s country residence.
- Trump shared NY Post editorial after briefing.
- Zelenskyy dismisses Russian claim as fabrication.
- Why it matters: It clarifies the truth behind a high-stakes diplomatic claim that could influence peace talks.
A CIA assessment released this week found that Ukraine was not attempting to strike Russian President Vladimir Putin’s country residence, contradicting allegations made by the Kremlin. The revelation came after President Donald Trump was briefed by CIA director John Ratcliffe and subsequently shared a New York Post editorial online. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also publicly denied the Russian claim, calling it a fabrication designed to justify further attacks.
CIA Assessment
The CIA concluded that Ukraine’s target was a military site located in the same region as Putin’s residence, not the president’s home itself. This assessment was first reported by the Wall Street Journal and later confirmed to President Trump by CIA director John Ratcliffe.
The CIA declined to comment on the briefing, but the findings were made public through News Of Los Angeles.
- Ukraine aimed at a military target in the same region as Putin’s residence.
- CIA assessment found no attempt to kill Putin.
- Kremlin alleged a residence attack.
Trump’s Response
After the briefing, Trump posted a link to a New York Post editorial that dismissed the Russian claim as a bluster. The editorial headline read: “Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace.”
Earlier in the week, Trump told reporters he was “very angry” after Putin said Ukrainian drones had attacked his Lake Valdai residence.
President Trump said:
> “I am very angry.”
Zelenskyy’s Denial
Zelenskyy has condemned the Russian allegation as a fabrication aimed at undermining peace efforts.
President Zelenskyy wrote on X:
> “Russia is at it again, using dangerous statements to undermine all achievements of our shared diplomatic efforts with President Trump’s team.”
President Zelenskyy added:
> “This alleged ‘residence strike’ story is a complete fabrication intended to justify additional attacks against Ukraine, including Kyiv, as well as Russia’s own refusal to take necessary steps to end the war. Typical Russian lies.”
Key Takeaways
- CIA assessment clears Ukraine of targeting Putin’s residence.
- Trump’s editorial highlights Kremlin’s bluster.
- Zelenskyy calls the claim a lie aimed at justifying attacks.
The findings underscore the complexity of information warfare in the ongoing conflict, as each side continues to contest narratives that shape international perceptions and negotiations.
