Russia Demands U.S., U.K. Response Over Bomber Attacks, Warns of Escalation
Russia expects a “clear response” from the United States and the United Kingdom regarding Ukraine’s recent attacks on its strategic bombers, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said Wednesday, cautioning that continued silence from the West could lead to a dangerous escalation. Speaking to reporters, Ryabkov denounced Kyiv’s actions as provocations designed to derail peace efforts.
He accused the U.S., U.K., and their European allies of deliberately undermining progress toward a peaceful resolution, despite Moscow’s claimed restraint ahead of the next round of talks in Istanbul. Ryabkov emphasized that any military response to the attacks will be determined by Russia’s Defense Ministry.
On broader diplomatic matters, Ryabkov said the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has shown more willingness to engage with Moscow and confirmed that dialogue between the two nations is ongoing. However, he also warned of anti-Russian elements within American political circles, accusing them of seeking to “destroy Russia.”
Ryabkov further criticized the election of German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock as President of the UN General Assembly, describing it as a development with “negative consequences” for Russia. He reaffirmed Moscow’s openness to negotiations but stressed they must be based on “realistic” conditions.
