Kremlin Warns of Retaliation for Ukraine Airbase Strikes

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russia will retaliate against Ukraine's recent drone strikes on Russian airbases and attacks on rail infrastructure, with President Vladimir Putin telling U.S. President Donald Trump that Moscow is obliged to respond at a time and manner chosen by its military. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov labeled Ukraine's leadership as a 'terrorist regime' responsible for ordering attacks that include the destruction of Russian heavy bombers and explosive sabotage of passenger trains, which killed civilians. Despite this escalation and Putin's rejection of a proposed ceasefire, Russian officials emphasized that working-level negotiations with Ukraine should continue. Trump and Putin acknowledged the necessity of a face-to-face meeting but agreed it must be properly prepared. Ukraine's recent Operation Pavutyna targeted and damaged numerous Russian strategic aircraft, a move that the U.S. President privately praised while publicly exercising caution, citing increased risks. The ongoing conflict and retaliatory threats have heightened tensions, with NATO officials anticipating significant Russian counteractions and the U.S. embassy warning American citizens in Kyiv to prepare for possible major attacks.