Russia’s Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that it had warned diplomatic missions to evacuate staff promptly from Kyiv in the event of a mass strike by Moscow in response to any attempt by Ukraine to disrupt Russia’s May 9 Victory Day commemorations.
Official Statement
“The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly urges the authorities of your country...to treat this statement with the utmost responsibility and ensure the timely evacuation from the city of Kyiv of the personnel of diplomatic and other representations in connection with the inevitability of a retaliatory strike on Kyiv by Russia’s Armed Forces,” Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a video posted on Telegram.
Background
The warning comes as Russia prepares to celebrate the 81st anniversary of the 1945 victory over Nazi Germany on May 9. In recent years, Ukraine has increasingly distanced itself from Soviet-era commemorations, and tensions have escalated amid the ongoing conflict. The Russian Foreign Ministry's statement underscores the high stakes surrounding this year's Victory Day, with Moscow signaling a readiness to respond forcefully to any perceived provocations.
Diplomatic missions in Kyiv have been urged to take immediate precautions, though it remains unclear how many embassies will comply with the evacuation request. The situation continues to develop as both sides brace for potential escalations around the symbolic date.
