Russia prepares retaliatory strike against Ukraine, SBU colonel warns

Roman Kostenko, Ukrainian lawmaker and SBU Colonel, said this on Espreso TV.

"The enemy has continuously attacked us and is clearly seeking a way to deliver a strike that could be sold domestically in Russia as an equal act of revenge," Kostenko said. "Various reports, including intelligence data, suggest the Russians are preparing for a strike, and there is information it could happen tonight. If air raid sirens sound, people must take them seriously and head to shelters. I believe the enemy wants to make a show of it for the international community."

Kostenko expressed concern over recent communication between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. “What worried me the most was Putin’s message to Trump, saying he needed to respond [to Ukraine]. It seemed like Trump approved of the idea — he didn’t warn Putin there would be consequences or promise to supply Ukraine with specific weapons. Trump gave no reply, and in my view, silence equals approval,” he said.

Asked whether Russia will retaliate, Kostenko responded: “I have no doubt — 101% yes. The only question is how. A drone or Shahed strike could serve their domestic propaganda, but they also want the world to notice. The strike could target decision-making centers or even the government quarter. I don’t know for certain, but I do know they’re preparing something. So again, when air raid sirens go off, people must take cover — a strike is highly likely, including tonight.”

According to Kostenko, there are reports that Russia could use Iskander missiles and has moved Tu-95 bombers to Olenya airbase, while submarines have also been spotted in the Black Sea. 

“So the strike could be a combination of missiles and Shaheds. The only unknown is the target. We all know Russia strikes civilian infrastructure and cities — that’s not new. There’s also talk of targeting energy infrastructure. We don’t know for sure, but our priority must be civilian safety, while Ukraine’s Defense Forces will do their best to protect key sites," he concluded.

• On June 1, 2025, Ukraine's Security Service conducted a major operation called Spider's Web to destroy Russian bomber aviation.
• On June 4, U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conversation with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin that lasted about 1 hour and 15 minutes. During the call, Putin said that he "would have to respond" to Ukrainian strikes on airfields in Russia.