The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has reacted strongly to recent threats issued by Russia, emphasizing the need for international solidarity against intimidation. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha noted that over 70 representatives from foreign diplomatic missions visited the sites of Russian attacks in Kyiv, underscoring the global concern over the escalating situation.
During a joint press conference with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya in Kyiv, Sybiha stated, “We are discussing with our partners that we must not succumb to this Russian blackmail. We have been through this before and understand when Putin escalates his rhetoric. He is attempting to influence what he perceives as the ‘Western mentality.’ Nuclear threats and joint exercises with Belarus are mockeries of peace efforts. There are no signs of a peaceful process from their side; instead, they are escalating tensions. Therefore, the world’s response must be proportional.”
Sybiha further emphasized the importance of military aid to Ukraine, stressing that Russia must face consequences for its refusal to engage in serious negotiations. He stated, “We discussed a firm reaction with our partners today—not just in words, but in concrete actions to demonstrate that Europe is not intimidated and knows how to respond to such threats. Our response must be both proportional and strong.”
On May 25, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced plans to target “decision-making centers and command posts” in Kyiv, warning foreign citizens, including diplomatic staff and representatives of international organizations, to leave the city as soon as possible.
In a significant escalation, Ukraine faced a massive attack from Russia on the night of May 24. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russian forces launched over 600 drones of various types and 90 missiles, primarily targeting Kyiv. The assault resulted in the deaths of four individuals across Ukraine, with approximately 100 others injured.
In Kyiv alone, two people were confirmed dead, and reports indicate that 91 individuals sustained injuries. Damage was recorded at 49 locations across several districts, including Shevchenkivskyi, Darnytskyi, Desnianskyi, Obolonskyi, and Holosiivskyi.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that the attacks impacted residential and private buildings, shopping centers, educational institutions, a market, and administrative buildings, including those of the State Emergency Service and police, as well as the National Chernobyl Museum. President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that around 30 residential buildings in Kyiv were either damaged or destroyed.
Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed responsibility for the extensive drone and missile strikes, including the use of ballistic missiles, targeting military management facilities, air bases, and enterprises within Ukraine’s defense industry.
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry condemned Russia's threats and called for a unified international response. The recent missile and drone attacks on Kyiv have resulted in casualties and significant damage, prompting discussions on military aid and proportional responses to Russian aggression.