Russia warns it will strike back when the military sees fit after Ukraine launches drone attacks on bomber airfields near Moscow

The recent drone strikes on Russian airfields on June 1 have sparked tension, but Moscow isn’t rushing its response just yet.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov made it clear that Russia will strike back at a time and in a way the military sees fit.

This measured approach shows that while Russia wants to act, it prefers to do so on its own terms.

Kremlin Demands International Condemnation of Drone Strikes

Peskov also expressed Moscow’s desire for the global community to openly condemn what it calls a “terrorist act.”

The drone attacks targeted strategic Russian bomber aircraft, and the Kremlin is pushing for strong international voices to speak out against these actions.

This highlights Russia’s attempt to frame the attacks not just as military actions but as terrorism.

Putin Discussed Retaliation with Trump

The issue of retaliation even came up during a recent phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and then-U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to Peskov, Putin spoke “very resolutely” about the measures Russia plans to take in response.

This conversation underscores how seriously Moscow views the incident and its potential consequences for international relations.

Russia Remains Open to Negotiations Despite Attacks

Despite the ongoing tensions and Moscow’s strong language about the drone strikes, Russia says it is still willing to continue talks with Ukraine.

Peskov quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasizing the importance of maintaining contact at the working level.

So even with the attacks labeled as sabotage and terrorism, Russia wants to keep diplomatic channels open.

Putin Acknowledges Ukraine’s Actions While Supporting Dialogue

Peskov noted that President Putin shares this pragmatic approach.

While Moscow views the current Ukrainian government as having “all the characteristics of a terrorist regime,” Putin still supports continuing negotiations.

The Kremlin also warned that Kyiv’s sabotage actions will be considered in any future talks or decisions, signaling that trust is fragile but dialogue remains possible.