Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alerted international partners about a potential large-scale offensive by Russian forces, following a conversation with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer on May 29. Zelensky expressed gratitude for Austria’s condolences regarding ongoing Russian airstrikes and shared intelligence indicating preparations for intensified attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Details regarding the planned offensive were not disclosed by the president. However, the warning comes in the context of recent statements from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which announced intentions to target decision-making centers and command posts in Kyiv. The ministry also urged foreign citizens, including diplomatic staff, to evacuate the city promptly.
In response, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry characterized the heightened threats from Russia as a continuation of longstanding security risks, dismissing them as “blatant intimidation.” The ministry reaffirmed its readiness to enhance security measures for foreign diplomatic missions that request assistance.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had personally warned the U.S. about the dangers in Kyiv, although Rubio emphasized that the city has been perilous for several years. He reiterated the United States’ commitment to mediating the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
During a United Nations Security Council meeting on May 28, U.S. representatives condemned Russia’s intentions and called for restraint regarding the anticipated systematic strikes on Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has warned of a possible Russian offensive, sharing intelligence with international partners. The situation escalates as Russia announces plans to target key locations in Kyiv, prompting responses from both Ukraine and the U.S.