Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that formal warnings have been issued to all diplomatic missions and international organizations stationed in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, regarding the potential for a large-scale retaliatory strike by Russia on Kyiv, urging them to immediately evacuate from the city.
Earlier this week, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced a two-day ceasefire from May 8 to May 9, marking the end of World War II in Europe, urging Kyiv to follow suit. It also warned that if Ukraine launches a military operation targeting Moscow during Victory Day celebrations, Russia may respond with a large-scale retaliatory strike against Kyiv.
Zakharova emphasized that Russia's warning must be taken seriously. She revealed that the Russian Foreign Ministry has formally communicated with all diplomatic missions and international organizations recognized by Russia, urging them to evacuate personnel from the Ukrainian capital ahead of possible retaliatory strikes.
"Should Ukraine continue implementing its 'criminal terrorist program,' and given the inevitable retaliatory strikes by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, the Foreign Ministry urgently calls upon your government/leadership to treat this statement with the utmost seriousness, ensuring the timely evacuation of diplomatic and other personnel, as well as civilians, from Kyiv."
Zakharova said that Russia is aware of the West’s attitude toward Victory Day, as well as their efforts to "rewrite history" and "systematically destroy Soviet memorial heritage." "They continue supplying weapons to Ukraine, effectively making them accomplices to the criminal plans orchestrated by the Kyiv regime. Yet, the instinct for self-preservation should not blind them."
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864533379741708/
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