Ukrainian assassination attempt on Putin foiled, says Kremlin

Moscow, May 3 (IANS) Ukraine launched two drone attacks overnight intended to strike the Kremlin residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, his office has reported, according to media reports.

The aircraft were downed using electronic warfare measures and caused no casualties or damage, the President's office said in a statement. Moscow considers the incident an act of terrorism, RT reported.

The incident occurred late on Tuesday night, and both unmanned aircraft fell on the grounds of Kremlin, according to the President's office. His schedule was not affected, RT reported.

"We consider this a pre-planned terrorist action and an attempt against the Russian President," it added.

The incident happened "ahead of Victory Day and the parade on May 9, when foreign guests are expected to be present".

Russia reserves the right to retaliate in a manner, place and time of its choosing, the statement noted.

Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that the President was absent from Kremlin when the drones were downed. He is currently at the presidential residence in Novo-Ogaryovo in Moscow Region, which is located to the west of the capital, RT reported.

There is footage circulating on social media, which purports to show the aftermath, with a plume of smoke rising against the night cityscape from the territory of the historic seat of Russian power.