Russia has issued a warning to foreign embassies and international organisations in Kyiv, urging them to prepare for the possible evacuation of staff and citizens amid fears of an imminent strike on the Ukrainian capital.
In a diplomatic note released on Wednesday, Moscow advised missions to ensure the “timely evacuation” of personnel, citing the risk of a “retaliatory strike” that could target key locations in the city, including what it described as decision-making centres.
The warning is linked to potential disruptions to Russia’s upcoming World War II Victory Day commemorations scheduled for May 9, a major national event marked annually with a military parade in Moscow’s Red Square.
According to the notice, any attempt by Ukraine to interfere with the celebrations could trigger a response from Russian forces.
There was no immediate reaction from Ukrainian authorities regarding the warning.
Earlier this week, Russia announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to May 9 to coincide with the commemorations. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the move, questioning its sincerity and suggesting it was driven by concerns over potential drone disruptions during the event.
Ukraine had separately declared its own ceasefire beginning May 6, but Kyiv has accused Russia of repeatedly violating the truce.
The latest warning adds to growing tensions between the two countries, as hostilities continue despite competing ceasefire declarations.
