As tensions continue to simmer between Russia and Ukraine, all eyes are on Moscow’s next move.
On June 1, a series of Ukrainian drone attacks targeted Russian airfields housing strategic bombers.
Despite the scale and implications of the strike, Russia hasn’t responded militarily—at least, not yet. So what’s the holdup?
Kremlin Says the Military Will Decide the Timing
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed the growing speculation over Moscow’s silence.
When asked about when and how Russia plans to respond to the June 1 attacks, Peskov gave a measured but firm reply: the Russian military will act when it sees fit.
“It will be carried out in the manner and at the time our military considers appropriate,” Peskov said, as reported by Interfax.
The Kremlin is clearly choosing not to rush, possibly calculating its options before launching any counteroffensive.
Russia Wants Global Condemnation—But Isn’t Holding Its Breath
Aside from military retaliation, Russia is also pushing for international support—or at least vocal condemnation of Ukraine’s actions.
Peskov described the drone strike as a “terrorist act” and said Moscow wants to hear a “strong condemnation” from the global community.
However, given the West’s current stance on the war, it’s unclear whether that’s an expectation or just posturing.
Putin Brought It Up with Trump
Interestingly, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly discussed the incident during a June 4 phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Peskov confirmed that Putin spoke “very resolutely” about Moscow’s plans to respond, signaling that Russia does not intend to let the attack slide without consequence.
While Trump hasn’t shared many specifics, the comment from Peskov suggests that Putin used the conversation to send a clear message—both to Trump and possibly to the West at large—that retaliation is not off the table.
Despite the Tension, Moscow Still Open to Talks
Surprisingly, even amid the heated rhetoric and accusations, Moscow insists it’s still open to diplomacy.
Peskov reiterated that Russia remains ready to continue discussions with Ukraine, despite what he labeled Kyiv’s “terrorist” actions.
“It is necessary to continue contacts at the work level,” he quoted Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as saying.
Putin, according to Peskov, supports maintaining diplomatic channels—even if he considers the current Ukrainian leadership to have taken on “all the characteristics of a terrorist regime.”
Looking Ahead: Dialogue and Deterrence?
So, while Russia weighs its military response, it’s also trying to balance force with diplomacy.
Peskov hinted that Ukraine’s recent sabotage efforts won’t be forgotten, suggesting that they’ll be factored into Moscow’s future strategy.
In the meantime, the world waits—and watches—to see whether dialogue wins out or whether the next chapter in this conflict will be written with firepower.