Following a massive Russian assault on Kyiv that killed four civilians, Moscow has warned foreign diplomats to evacuate the city, prompting firm pushback from Poland, Germany, and the European Union.
Escalation of Attacks in Kyiv
On Sunday, May 24, Russia launched a massive attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region, resulting in four deaths and approximately 100 injuries. The Russian Foreign Ministry subsequently warned of systematic strikes against military and industrial facilities, advising all foreigners and diplomatic missions to evacuate the city immediately.
On Monday, May 25, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed his American counterpart, Marco Rubio, of the Kremlin’s decision to conduct systematic strikes on targets in Kyiv linked to the Ukrainian military, according to Reuters.
Poland’s Stance on Diplomatic Security
Polish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wewior confirmed that a contingency plan is in place for Polish diplomats in Kyiv. He noted that the embassy has been operating under wartime conditions for some time, stating that while the threats are taken seriously, any direct attack on diplomatic facilities would fundamentally change the situation.
In a formal statement, the Polish Foreign Ministry clarified that any strike on Polish diplomatic representations in Ukraine will be treated as a deliberate act. The ministry emphasized that it views all attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure and populations as unjustified aggression.
International Rejection of Russian Threats
On Tuesday, May 26, the German Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador, declaring that Germany will not be intimidated. The ministry condemned Russian threats and attacks on hospitals, schools, and media offices, pledging continued support for Ukraine.
European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper announced that the EU has also summoned the Russian charge d’affaires in response to the threats. The European Union confirmed it has no intention of withdrawing its diplomatic mission from Kyiv.