Trump makes complete U-turn on Putin after CIA releases shocking new evidence

US President Donald Trump has made a surprising reversal regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent claim that Ukraine targeted one of his residences with drones. The change comes after a CIA briefing concluded there was no evidence supporting the alleged strike, highlighting the complex information battles shaping the Ukraine conflict.

Initially, Trump expressed strong outrage over the reported incident. Speaking at Mar-a-Lago on December 29 alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he said, “I am very angry about the claim. This is not the right time,” distinguishing the alleged event from routine military action. However, after reviewing intelligence presented by CIA Director John Ratcliffe on December 31, Trump signalled scepticism by reposting a critical New York Post editorial on Truth Social. The editorial, titled “Putin 'attack' bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace,” accused Moscow of fabricating the incident to disrupt ongoing US-brokered diplomacy.

Putin’s claim had alleged that Ukraine launched over 90 drones targeting a residence in the Novgorod region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the allegation as a “complete fabrication.” While Russian state media released footage of downed drones, they provided no proof linking them to Putin’s residence. According to Russian reports, all 91 drones were intercepted without damage or casualties.

The incident comes amid a surge in reciprocal drone strikes in the region. On December 31, Russian-installed Kherson governor Vladimir Saldo claimed Ukrainian drones hit a cafe and hotel in occupied Khorly, killing 24 civilians and injuring over 50, including children. Ukrainian authorities have not confirmed these reports, and independent verification remains absent, with credible sources pointing to a lack of evidence outside Russian state media.

Analysts suggest Putin’s claim may have been intended to undermine US-led peace efforts, which include ceasefire proposals and potential territorial negotiations. EU officials echoed US scepticism, condemning attacks on civilians and urging both sides to de-escalate tensions.

As military strikes intensify with Ukraine targeting Russian oil infrastructure and Russia continuing attacks on Odesa the episode underscores how misinformation and strategic narratives complicate diplomacy. Trump’s pivot following the CIA briefing marks a notable shift, reflecting the challenges of navigating international conflict in real time.