Russia Threatens More Kyiv Strikes, Tells Foreigners to Leave
Russia’s Defense Ministry warned foreign citizens to leave Kyiv immediately on Monday, saying Russian forces are preparing “systematic” strikes on the Ukrainian capital. The threat follows one of the largest aerial assaults on Kyiv overnight Saturday since the war began.
According to BBC reports, Russian forces launched intensive airstrikes over the weekend, damaging multiple civilian infrastructure sites in Kyiv. Russian statements indicated that more systematic strikes on key facilities in the capital are planned, with an explicit warning for all foreign nationals remaining in Kyiv to evacuate as soon as possible.
The airstrike was among the heaviest on the Ukrainian capital in recent months. Ukrainian air defense forces reported that Russia launched multiple cruise missiles and drones targeting energy and communication infrastructure in Kyiv. While Ukraine’s air defenses successfully intercepted most targets, some missiles still struck urban areas.
The international community has expressed concern. A UN spokesperson called on all parties to comply with international humanitarian law and protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs also issued a statement condemning attacks on populated areas.
Meanwhile, Russia issued similar warnings to foreign nationals in other Ukrainian cities. Analysts suggest this move may be an attempt by Moscow to exert pressure ahead of upcoming negotiations, while also preparing for potentially escalated military operations.
Ukrainian President Zelensky said in his Sunday evening address that Ukraine will continue to strengthen its air defenses and called on Western partners to provide more air defense systems. He emphasized that Ukraine will not back down in the face of Russian threats.