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U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker has expressed skepticism over Russia’s claim that Ukraine launched a drone attack on a residence linked to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying the United States needs to review intelligence before drawing conclusions. Speaking Tuesday in an interview on Fox Business’ “Varney & Co.,” Whitaker said it remains unclear whether the alleged incident even occurred, emphasizing the importance of verified U.S. and allied intelligence assessments.
Russia claimed on Monday that Ukraine carried out an attack using 91 long-range drones targeting a presidential residence in the Novgorod region. Moscow warned that it would retaliate and harden its position in ongoing peace negotiations. Ukraine has firmly denied the accusation, calling it a fabrication intended to justify further Russian military actions. Ukrainian Foreign Minister said Russia has provided no evidence to support its claims because “there’s none.”
Whitaker noted that the timing of the accusation raised doubts, particularly as Ukraine has been signaling a strong interest in reaching a peace agreement. He said it would seem reckless and counterproductive for Ukraine to conduct such an operation so close to potential diplomatic progress. According to Whitaker, determining the truth depends on what U.S. and allied intelligence agencies conclude about whether the attack actually happened.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that Putin told him directly during a phone call that Ukraine attempted to attack the residence, adding that he was “very angry” about the alleged incident. However, when asked if there was evidence, Trump said, “We’ll find out.” The White House declined to comment further, and U.S. intelligence agencies, including the CIA, have remained silent.
The comments come as diplomatic efforts continue. After meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Florida, Trump said the two leaders might be “very close” to an agreement to end the war, although major territorial disputes remain unresolved. Zelenskiy reiterated on Tuesday that the residence strike story was a “complete fabrication” used to justify more attacks on Ukraine.
Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022, currently controls nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory and claims its forces are continuing to advance.
