Russia warns foreign missions to evacuate Kyiv; EU summons Russian charge d'affaires

Central News Agency, Brussels, May 26. Russia recently issued a warning to Western countries, demanding the evacuation of their diplomatic missions in Kyiv and threatening to launch more attacks. The EU stated today that it has summoned the Russian charge d'affaires to express the EU's position, declaring that anyone who violates international humanitarian law will be held accountable. Anitta Hipper, the EU's foreign policy spokesperson, responded to questions regarding Russia's statements during a regular press conference on the 26th. Hipper said that Russia's threats are merely an attempt to create panic, spread fear in Ukraine and elsewhere, and isolate its opponents. However, the EU's message is clear: such tactics by Russia will not succeed, and the EU will continue to maintain its presence and operations in Kyiv. She stated that because Russia is suffering setbacks on the battlefield, it has turned to threatening civilians and civilian infrastructure. Hipper emphasized that the EU's local delegation and civilian mission headquarters have also been affected by these attacks. The EU reiterated that any deliberate attack on civilians and non-military targets constitutes a war crime. At the same time, the EU has adopted diplomatic measures to express its stance. Hipper stated that the commanders, perpetrators, and accomplices of such serious violations of international humanitarian law will be held accountable. The EU has already summoned the Russian charge d'affaires and conveyed its position. Hipper stated that this situation once again proves that Russia has absolutely no interest in any peace process and completely ignores all efforts made for peace. The EU will continue to provide Ukraine with much-needed air defense systems and further financial support. She added that in the coming days, EU foreign ministers will hold an informal Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Cyprus to discuss how to further increase international pressure on Russia.