During the night, reports emerged that Ukraine attempted to strike the Kremlin using drones, an action that drew swift international attention and protests from Moscow. Russian authorities condemned the move, warning of firm responses to any threat against the presidential residence and the wider state apparatus. The Kremlin stated that it would not tolerate deliberate attacks on key symbols of national power and that it reserved the right to act decisively in defense of its security and sovereignty.
In a formal briefing, Kremlin spokespeople claimed the attempt targeted the residence of Russia’s president. They asserted that the defense forces detected the incoming drones in time and neutralized them before they could inflict damage. The official summary underscored that the military and security services acted promptly to counter the threat and protect critical national infrastructure.
The Kremlin’s statement stressed that retaliatory measures could be taken whenever and wherever Moscow deemed necessary to deter future incursions and to safeguard its leadership and citizens. Officials emphasized that Russia would respond with precision and resolve to any aggression, reinforcing the message that threats would be treated as serious challenges to national security.
Local residents near the scene circulated footage in the hours following the event, offering a rare glimpse into the immediate aftermath. The visual material captured fragments from the incident and the confusion that accompanied it, serving as a reminder of the volatility surrounding high-profile targets and the security perimeter around the Kremlin complex.
According to the Russian Presidency, two drones were directed toward the Kremlin. The description noted that the devices were rendered inactive through the coordinated use of radio-electronic warfare systems and countermeasures, preventing them from reaching their intended destination. The drones and some debris reportedly collided with the surrounding grounds as the security operations unfolded, though there were no casualties or significant property damage reported.
The Kremlin framed the incident as a calculated terrorist attack meant to disrupt the national celebration that lies on the eve of Victory Day. It was described as a bold effort to undermine a national event and to cast a shadow over the commemorative parade scheduled for May 9. The presidency highlighted the gravity of the perceived assault and its potential to escalate tensions between Moscow and Kyiv, while insisting that such attempts would not derail planned demonstrations of state resilience and military display.
Among foreign leaders, Kyrgyz President Sadir Zhaparov had confirmed his attendance at the Red Square festivities, reflecting a broader pattern of international participation in the ceremony. Moscow also reassured the public that the security perimeter would remain robust and that the parade preparations would proceed without interruption, reinforcing the message that the event would go ahead as scheduled.
The Kremlin, for its part, maintained that President Vladimir Putin was unharmed and continued his official duties. Officials stated that the leadership remained active in evaluating the situation and coordinating with security services to ensure ongoing protection for top state institutions and the ceremonial program surrounding Victory Day.
As the situation developed, Russian authorities reiterated their warning that retaliatory actions would be taken if future threats emerged. The persistent refrain from Moscow emphasized sovereignty and the protection of national leadership, signaling a readiness to respond to any expedition that could undermine state security. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed that the Red Square parade would advance as planned, underscoring a collective commitment to national symbolism and public reassurance.