Russia Warns Foreign Missions in Kyiv Over Potential Escalation Risks

(MENAFN) Moscow has issued a warning to diplomatic missions and international organizations regarding what it described as the risk of a large-scale retaliatory strike on Kyiv, according to Russian Foreign Ministry statements cited by reports.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Russia had formally communicated with foreign embassies and international bodies, advising them to consider leaving the Ukrainian capital due to what she described as potential security risks linked to possible military escalation.

The warning follows a recent announcement by Russia’s Defense Ministry of a two-day ceasefire scheduled for May 8–9, marking Victory Day commemorations. Russian officials urged Ukraine to observe similar restraint, while also issuing warnings about possible retaliation in response to alleged threats directed at Moscow during the period.

Zakharova emphasized that the message should be treated with urgency, stating that diplomatic missions were informed about what Moscow described as possible consequences if certain actions were taken. The communication reportedly advised precautionary evacuation of diplomatic personnel and civilians from Kyiv in anticipation of potential developments.

She also referenced broader political tensions, including accusations of historical revisionism and the destruction of Soviet-era memorials, while criticizing continued Western military support for Ukraine. According to her remarks, such support was characterized as contributing indirectly to ongoing escalation risks.

The statement framed Russia’s position as a warning to international actors to reassess their presence in Kyiv under current conditions, as tensions surrounding the conflict continue to remain high.

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