US warns that Russia is preparing a large-scale combined strike on Ukraine in response to drone attack: Reuters
American officials believe that a large-scale combined attack by Russia against Ukraine may take place in the coming days. According to Washington, Putin’s statement about an inevitable response to the recent attack by Ukrainian drones on Russian air bases has not yet been implemented. About this informs Reuters agency with reference to informed sources in US government circles.
Although the exact date of the possible attack is still unknown, one of the sources in the US administration said that it should be expected “within several days.” Another official clarified that Russia’s likely response would include the large-scale use of air strikes — various types of missile weapons and attack drones.
Western diplomats also confirm that the Kremlin is preparing for a new series of devastating attacks. One of the agency’s diplomatic interlocutors noted that Moscow’s response may have already begun, but an escalation should be expected in the near future. Symbolic objects of Ukrainian statehood, in particular administrative buildings in Kyiv, are especially under threat. According to the source, this choice of targets allows the Kremlin to send a “clear signal” to the political leadership of Ukraine.
Another senior diplomat from the Western coalition described the alleged attack as “massive, brutal and ruthless”. At the same time, he added, Ukrainians have already proven that they are “an extremely brave people.”
Michael Kofman, a leading expert on Russia at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, believes that the central apparatus of the Security Service of Ukraine in Kyiv or the regional offices of military intelligence may be in the zone of increased risk. Also, according to him, enterprises of the defense industry, which provide the Armed Forces of Ukraine with weapons and equipment, are under attack.
Analysts assume that Moscow can use medium-range ballistic missiles, as well as high-precision means of attack from the air, against Ukraine. In recent days, satellite images and monitoring systems have recorded activity at Russian airfields and the movement of missile weapons.
We will remind you that last weekend Ukraine carried out a series of drone strikes on airfields in Russia, as a result of which several planes were damaged. Speaking after these attacks, Putin promised that “the response will be tough.” In Washington, they believe that the answer is yet to come.
