Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has alerted Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer about an impending large-scale attack by Russia on Ukrainian cities. The warning was issued during a phone call on May 29, where Zelensky shared intelligence findings from Ukrainian sources.
In a message posted on Telegram, Zelensky emphasized the necessity for coordinated responses from international partners, particularly in supplying anti-ballistic systems. He stated, “It is crucial that our partners respond collectively to these bombardments, especially regarding anti-ballistic supplies.”
The conversation also touched on Ukraine’s European integration efforts, with Zelensky mentioning that the first cluster is expected to launch in June. He expressed gratitude to Austria for its supportive stance, stating, “This is fair; Ukrainians deserve this. I appreciate Austria for fully sharing this view.”
During a separate meeting with Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Zelensky reiterated that Russia is relying on missile strikes rather than diplomatic solutions. He urged international allies to intensify sanctions against Moscow and expedite the implementation of agreements related to Ukraine’s air defense.
“We have intelligence indicating Russia’s preparation for a new large-scale strike. It is important that all our partners are aware of what is happening and that Russia continues to depend on missiles and further warfare instead of diplomatic actions,” Zelensky noted.
He added that he and Kuleba had outlined a plan of action for the coming weeks, discussing how partners could effectively bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities. “Anti-ballistic systems are a key task. We are also preparing detailed proposals for a new European sanctions package and additional measures against circumvention of existing sanctions. I thank everyone who is helping to protect lives,” he said.
In a recent interview with CBS News anchor Margaret Brennan, Zelensky indicated that Russia might launch a significant attack on Ukraine’s territory either that evening or the following day. He pointed out that Ukraine is currently observing Russian preparations involving cruise and ballistic missiles, as well as drones.
“Russia is using this solely for political attacks and pressure on NATO countries through weaponry to gauge their reactions. Therefore, I believe the response should be stronger, reflecting the unity of NATO countries,” Zelensky asserted.
Brennan also reported that Zelensky mentioned a shortage of anti-ballistic missiles in Ukraine.
Russian Threats Against Kyiv
On May 22, Russian state media TASS claimed an attack on a training facility and dormitory at the Starobilsk Professional College, accusing Ukrainian forces of the strike. The Ukrainian General Staff refuted these claims, stating that Ukrainian military forces had targeted a command post of the Russian military unit “Rubikon” in the temporarily occupied territory.
The General Staff clarified that “Rubikon” is a Russian military special unit involved in attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
On May 25, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a sharp statement following reports of drone strikes in Starobilsk, accusing Ukraine of targeting civilian sites and threatening to escalate attacks on Kyiv and its infrastructure.
In response to these accusations, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced its intention to carry out systematic strikes on Ukrainian defense industry facilities, including in Kyiv, and mentioned potential attacks on “decision-making centers” and command posts.
Additionally, on May 25, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a phone conversation. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov conveyed the Kremlin’s position on the Ukrainian conflict, stating that in response to attacks on Russian territory, the Russian armed forces would begin systematic strikes on Kyiv’s military support facilities.
The Russian Foreign Ministry also noted that Lavrov had advised the U.S. on the evacuation of diplomatic personnel from Kyiv.
On May 26, Rubio dismissed the notion that Russia had urged Washington to withdraw embassy personnel from Kyiv amid the anticipated strikes as an exaggeration.
Reactions from Ukraine and Allies
The Russian threats have prompted reactions from various embassies in Ukraine. The French Embassy condemned the Russian Foreign Ministry’s statements as unacceptable and reaffirmed its commitment to continue operations in Kyiv while calling for a ceasefire.
The Polish Embassy echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that it would not succumb to Russian provocations and would maintain its operations, highlighting that Russia employs terror as a pressure tactic.
EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Maternova described the threats against diplomats as a sign of desperation from Russia and confirmed that the EU Embassy would continue its work in Kyiv despite the threats.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry characterized these actions as blackmail and escalation from Russia, urging partners not to respond with concessions but to enhance support for Ukraine, particularly in terms of military assistance.
Meanwhile, 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 civilians and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable,” she stated.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has warned of an imminent Russian offensive, urging international partners to enhance military support and sanctions against Moscow. Recent discussions have focused on Ukraine's defense capabilities and European integration efforts amid escalating tensions.