Russia urges diplomats and foreign citizens to leave Kiev amid strike threats

Russia has urged foreign citizens and diplomats in Kiev to leave the Ukrainian capital and refrain from travelling to the country, whilst advising local residents to stay clear of military and administrative facilities.

In an official statement, the Russian Foreign Ministry said Moscow will press ahead with sustained strikes against military infrastructure in Kiev and other Ukrainian cities.

It described the operations as direct responses to what it termed "terrorist actions" carried out by Ukrainian forces against Russian civilian populations and domestic infrastructure.

"The Russian Foreign Ministry once again warns foreign citizens, including diplomatic mission personnel, against staying in or travelling to Ukraine," the ministry stated.

"Responsibility for any potential adverse consequences rests entirely with those who disregard this warning".

Warnings of 'mortal danger'

The ministry noted that the guidance was first detailed in a May 25 statement alongside formal diplomatic notes sent to foreign partners, then reiterated during a May 27 briefing for the diplomatic corps by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin.

Moscow also highlighted that several Western nations — including the United States, the United Kingdom, European Union member states, Norway, and Switzerland — have repeatedly issued travel warnings advising citizens against visiting Ukraine, most recently in August.

"Many embassies remain operational in Kiev, and foreign officials continue to visit Ukraine," the ministry added, warning that individuals who disregard the warnings are "knowingly exposing themselves to mortal danger".

"The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will continue to deliver massive retaliatory strikes," the ministry concluded, as the Russia–Ukraine war enters its fifth year, having surpassed four and a half years of active hostilities.

Source: TRT World