Newsletters
Russia sent an evacuation warning to foreign diplomats in Kyiv on Wednesday, saying it would attack the Ukrainian capital if Ukraine disrupted World War II commemorations in Moscow this weekend.
In a note to foreign diplomatic missions and international organizations, Russia warned it would launch a “retaliatory strike” on Kyiv, “including against decision-making centres,” if Ukraine disrupted the commemorations on Saturday.
Russia urged diplomats and international organizations to “ensure the timely evacuation of personnel from diplomatic and other missions, as well as citizens, from the city of Kyiv.”
Russia did not provide further details on the threat, and there was no immediate response from Ukraine.
Russia marks World War II Victory Day each year on May 9 with a large military parade through Red Square.
Earlier this week, Russia declared a unilateral ceasefire with Ukraine between May 8 and 9 to coincide with the commemorations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has criticized Russia for demanding a ceasefire on May 9, a key holiday for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Zelenskyy suggested Monday that Moscow was afraid Ukrainian drones would “buzz over Red Square.”
Ukraine proposed its own ceasefire for May 6, but Russia ignored the proposal.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine had received reports of strikes from different regions throughout the day.
“Today, virtually all day long, virtually every hour, we have been receiving reports of strikes from various regions,” he said.
In his evening address, Zelenskyy said Ukraine would “respond in kind” to Russia’s violations and decide its next steps accordingly.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
