The United States believes Russian President Vladimir Putin’s full “retaliation” for Ukraine’s bold drone assault against Russia’s strategic bomber fleet last weekend is still forthcoming and will likely involve a substantial, multi-pronged attack, Reuters reported on 7 June, citing unnamed US officials.

According to Reuters, US officials stated on condition of anonymity that Russia’s massive missile and drone barrage on 6 June was only part of a broader retaliatory plan. One official claimed that the upcoming strike is expected to be “asymmetrical,” meaning it will not directly mirror Ukraine’s drone attack. Another official stated the Kremlin is likely to employ multiple air capabilities, including missiles and drones.

The timing of the complete response remains uncertain. However, one source told Reuters it could occur within days. A Western diplomatic source suggested that key targets may include symbolic Ukrainian sites, such as government buildings, in an effort to send a strong message to Kyiv.

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Western diplomats foresee intensified Russian assault

A Western diplomatic source told Reuters that while Russia’s retaliation may have already begun, it is expected to intensify. Another senior diplomat described the expected attack as “huge, vicious and unrelenting,” but also said the Ukrainians are “brave.”

Neither the Russian nor Ukrainian embassies in Washington responded to Reuters’ requests for comment. The White House also did not issue an immediate statement.

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Analysts suggest intelligence and defense sites could be targeted

According to Reuters, Michael Kofman, a Russia analyst at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, speculated that Moscow might focus its retaliation on the SBU, Ukraine’s domestic security agency behind the Operation Spiderweb, or regional intelligence buildings. He also mentioned that Russia could use intermediate-range ballistic missiles to deliver a powerful message and possibly strike Ukrainian defense manufacturing sites.