EU refuses to pull diplomats from Kyiv despite Russia's threats
Photo: EU rejects Russia’s demand to evacuate diplomats from Kyiv (Getty Images)
The European Union will not reduce its diplomatic presence in Kyiv after Russia called on foreign missions to evacuate staff ahead of May 9, European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni announced during a European Commission briefing.
EU says its presence in Kyiv will remain unchanged
“We will not change our posture or presence in Kyiv. Russian attacks are, and it's unfortunately, a daily reality in Kyiv and elsewhere in of Ukraine,” El Anouni said.
What Moscow’s threats mean
El Anouni also commented on statements made by Russia.
“Russia once again outrageously tries to put the blame for its own war of aggression — Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” he stressed.
The European Commission spokesperson described Moscow’s public threats to attack Kyiv as “part of its reckless escalation tactics.”
What is known about Russia’s threats
On May 6, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced that foreign diplomatic missions and representatives of international organizations had received an official note.
The document called on them to “ensure the timely evacuation from Kyiv of diplomatic and other mission personnel.” During a briefing, Zakharova also threatened an “inevitable” strike on Kyiv, including against “decision-making centers,” if anyone attempted to disrupt celebrations in Moscow on May 9.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine would respond to Russian attacks symmetrically with “long-range sanctions.”
If Moscow chooses diplomacy, Kyiv is also prepared for negotiations. According to Zelenskyy, since the beginning of May 7, Russia has launched around 100 drone strikes, dozens of airstrikes, and attacks along the frontline.
Earlier the same day, Zelenskyy confirmed a strike on the Lukoil-Permnefteorgsintez oil refinery in Perm, located more than 1,500 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.
The president stressed that the Kremlin could stop the war every day but instead is seeking a short-term pause for the sake of the May 9 parade.
