Russia has announced its intention to launch systematic strikes against targets in Kyiv, allegedly used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, as well as decision-making centers. This declaration was made during a phone conversation on May 25 between Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
During the call, Lavrov conveyed the Kremlin’s stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, asserting that in response to attacks on Russian territory, the Russian military would begin systematic and sequential strikes on specific locations in Kyiv. The Russian Foreign Ministry also highlighted Lavrov’s warnings to the U.S. regarding the evacuation of diplomatic personnel from Kyiv.
Additionally, the two officials discussed diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the situation in Cuba. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue dialogue regarding the normalization of diplomatic operations between Russia and the United States.
On May 22, Russian state media reported an attack on a training facility and dormitory at the Starobilsk Professional College, blaming the Ukrainian Armed Forces for the incident. However, the Ukrainian General Staff denied these claims, stating that Ukrainian forces had targeted a command post of the Russian military unit known as ‘Rubicon’ in temporarily occupied Starobilsk.
The General Staff further identified ‘Rubicon’ as a Russian military special unit involved in attacks on civilian populations and infrastructure in Ukraine. Following reports of drone strikes on Starobilsk, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a stern statement, accusing Ukraine of targeting civilian sites and warning of expanded strikes on Kyiv and its infrastructure.
In light of these threats, the Russian Foreign Ministry reiterated its plans to conduct systematic strikes on Ukrainian defense industry facilities, particularly in Kyiv, and mentioned potential attacks on command centers.
Responses to Russia’s threats have emerged from various diplomatic missions in Ukraine. The French Embassy condemned the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statements as unacceptable, emphasizing that it continues its operations in Kyiv and urging Russia to cease hostilities.
The Polish Embassy also stated its resolve to remain unaffected by provocative rhetoric from Russia and affirmed its ongoing presence in Ukraine, highlighting that Russia employs terror as a means of pressure.
EU Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, described the threats against diplomats as a sign of desperation from Russia, confirming that the EU Embassy will continue its operations in Kyiv despite the risks.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry labeled these threats as blackmail and escalation from Russia, urging international partners to respond with increased support for Ukraine, particularly in terms of military assistance.
In a related context, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Ukraine, Julie Davis, condemned the nighttime attack on Kyiv on May 24, which targeted museums, metro stations, residential buildings, and other civilian sites.
“Targeted strikes against civilian populations and infrastructure are unacceptable,” she stated.
Russia has threatened systematic strikes on Kyiv, claiming these actions are in response to attacks on its territory. The announcement came during a call between Russian and U.S. officials, as tensions escalate amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.