The Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned a representative from the Russian embassy on May 8, delivering a formal protest regarding Russia’s warning about the evacuation of its diplomatic staff and citizens from Kyiv.
In the protest note, Lithuania expressed that such statements from Russia are perceived as direct threats of potential violence against foreign embassies in Kyiv, as well as against the city’s inhabitants.
“Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, along with such declarations, clearly violates the prohibition of threats of force as outlined in Article 2, Paragraph 4 of the United Nations Charter, as well as other widely recognized principles of international law enshrined in the UN Charter,” the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry emphasized.
The ministry further asserted that these statements indicate Russia’s acknowledgment of its armed forces’ intentions to continue committing international crimes in Ukraine.
Additionally, Lithuania firmly rejects Russia’s threats and insists on an immediate and unconditional cessation of aggression against Ukraine.
The Lithuanian embassy in Kyiv remains operational, with staff adhering to standard security protocols.
Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged diplomats to evacuate from Kyiv ahead of a purported “retaliatory strike on decision-making centers.” In response, the European Commission stated that the European Union would not alter its position or presence in Ukraine’s capital.
Germany has also confirmed that it will not evacuate its diplomats from Kyiv despite Russia’s threats of renewed attacks on the Ukrainian capital.
Lithuania has formally protested against Russia's evacuation warning for diplomats in Kyiv, viewing it as a threat to international law and security. The Lithuanian embassy continues its operations, while the EU and Germany maintain their diplomatic presence in Ukraine.