Reports circulating on messaging channels claim that drone-powered weapons were issued to members of the National Guard. The materials suggest crews were equipped in preparation for reinforcements linked to the Victory Parade rehearsals and public demonstrations planned for May 7 and May 9. It is noted that the National Guard also received binoculars which were later distributed after the drone incident near the Kremlin, aligning with security briefings that followed that event. [Attribution: National Guard internal briefings and Telegram circulation]
Elena Krylova, spokesperson for the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation, indicated that prior efforts went into restoring the dome of the Kremlin Senate Palace after the drone intrusion. The updates included replacing copper plates damaged during the drone suppression near the dome and strengthening the structure to resist future incidents. [Attribution: Presidential Administration statements]
During the night of May 3, the Kremlin press service reported that a Ukrainian drone attempted to strike Vladimir Putin’s residence within the Kremlin complex. It was noted that swift measures using electronic warfare and radar warning systems led to the disabling of two Ukrainian aircraft, preventing further damage. [Attribution: Kremlin press service briefing]
In a broader statement, the Kremlin emphasized that Russia reserves the right to respond with retaliatory actions where and when it deems appropriate. The stance underscores the use of force in defense of national security and sovereignty. [Attribution: Kremlin official statement]