Following a Monday phone call requested by Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio of plans for systematic military strikes against decision-making centers in Kyiv.
Diplomatic Exchange on Conflict
The call between the two officials took place on Monday, May 25. The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that Lavrov notified his American counterpart of Moscow’s decision to conduct systematic strikes on Kyiv-based military targets and decision-making centers.
Lavrov characterized these measures as a response to ongoing Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory, which he labeled as terrorist acts against civilians. The U.S. State Department confirmed the call was initiated by Russia, noting that both parties exchanged views on the war, bilateral relations, and the situation in Iran.
Russian Escalation and Warnings
Prior to the call, the Russian Foreign Ministry warned of methodical strikes against military and industrial sites in Kyiv, advising foreign nationals to evacuate the Ukrainian capital immediately. This announcement followed allegations of a Ukrainian drone attack on an educational building in Starobilsk on Friday, May 22. Ukraine denied these claims, asserting the target was a facility managing drone operations.
Impact of Recent Bombardments
Over the weekend, Russia conducted intense strikes across the Kyiv region. Ukrainian authorities reported that 600 drones and 90 missiles, including the Oreshnik ballistic missile, were launched between Saturday and Sunday. Four people were killed and approximately 100 were injured. President Zelenskyy stated that 300 buildings were damaged on Sunday alone, including the headquarters of Polish cultural and language organizations.
Condemnation from U.S. Embassy
The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv condemned the attacks on museums, residential buildings, and infrastructure. The charge d’affaires described the targeting of civilians as unacceptable, adding that the war must end, in line with statements from President Donald Trump.
