After one of the largest shellings of Kyiv since the start of the full-scale war, Russia has openly declared its intention to continue strikes on the Ukrainian capital. Moscow is talking about attacks on “decision-making centers” and is also recommending foreign diplomats to leave Kyiv. Against this background, the US, the EU and Ukraine are simultaneously talking about the need to end the war, strengthen air defense and prevent escalation.
US Embassy condemns massive Russian attack on Kyiv
Charge ai of the US in Ukraine Julie Davis condemned the massive Russian attack on Kyiv on May 24. She said that she personally saw the consequences of the strike and stressed the unacceptability of attacks on civilians and infrastructure. This was reported by the US Embassy in Ukraine in X. Davis also reiterated the position of US President Donald Trump on the need to end the war.
After the attack, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga announced the convening of an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council and a special OSCE summit on the security situation.
Recall that according to official data from the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, on the night of May 24, Russian troops fired 90 missiles and 600 drones of various types at Ukraine. Ukrainian air defenses destroyed 55 missiles and 549 drones, but the main blow fell on Kyiv. After the latest strikes, destruction was recorded in several areas of the capital; there are dead and more than 90 injured. In particular, about 300 objects were damaged, including the national museum with exhibits dedicated to the Chernobyl disaster, which was actually destroyed, as well as a metro station, shopping mall, educational institution and residential buildings. More than 70 foreign diplomats visited one of the most affected districts of Kyiv to honor the memory of the victims of the shelling.
Lavrov informed the US about plans for “systemic strikes” on Kyiv
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced during a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Russia intends to carry out “systemic and consistent strikes” on Kyiv. Moscow announced, that these are attacks on facilities that are allegedly used for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as for the so-called “decision-making centers”. This was reported by the Russian Foreign Ministry after negotiations on May 25. The Russian side also stated that it had recommended that foreign diplomats leave Kyiv due to the risk of new attacks.
During the conversation, Lavrov and Rubio also discussed the situation around the Strait of Hormuz, Cuba and the work of diplomatic missions of both countries. The Russian side claims that the upcoming strikes are a response to the alleged Ukrainian attacks on the territory of the Russian Federation. At the same time, Ukraine rejects accusations of deliberate strikes on civilian objects. Moscow's statements came after one of the most massive shellings of Kyiv in recent times, which caused significant destruction and civilian casualties.
Rubio gave Trump a message from Putin
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio saidthat he gave Donald Trump a message from Vladimir Putin, received during a telephone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This was reported by RFE/RL correspondent Alex Raufoglu on the social network X, citing the words of the American diplomat during a visit to India. Rubio did not disclose the content of the message, but confirmed that it was addressed directly to Trump. He also commented on information about the possible evacuation of diplomatic personnel from Kyiv.
According to Rubio, Russia has indeed warned foreign embassies about the increased danger in Kyiv, but calling it a separate call for evacuation would be an exaggeration. He stressed that Kyiv has remained a dangerous city for a long time due to constant attacks. Commenting on the latest massive Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital, the US Secretary of State said that they once again demonstrate the need to end the war. Rubio also stressed Washington's readiness to facilitate negotiations if an opportunity for a diplomatic settlement arises.
Zelensky said there has been no progress with the US on missile defense systems
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said, that Ukraine has not yet made significant progress in negotiations with the US on expanding the production of missile defense systems. He said this in his evening video address. According to the head of state, Kyiv is currently working with European partners to accelerate the production of its own anti-ballistic systems in Europe. Zelensky stressed that US support and leadership remain critically important for Ukraine.
Zelensky thanked France and personally President Emmanuel Macron for their participation in the development of defense systems for Ukraine. He also noted that European countries are actively providing financial assistance in the purchase of weapons and the development of defense production. At the same time, Zelensky stressed the importance of American experience and technologies in the field of missile defense. In addition to military support, Ukraine expects new diplomatic steps with the participation of representatives of the US President.
Russia threatens new strikes on Kyiv, urges foreigners to leave city
Russia has announced its intention to launch “systemic strikes” on targets in Kyiv linked to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. According to Reuters, Moscow claims that the strikes will be a response to alleged Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory. At the same time, the Russian Foreign Ministry recommended that diplomats and foreign citizens leave Kyiv as soon as possible.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urged partners not to succumb to “Russian blackmail.” The head of the EU delegation in Kyiv, Katarina Maternova, said that Russia was trying to sow panic and isolate Ukraine, but the European Union did not plan to leave Kyiv.
Photo: DSNS
Author: Danylo Pievchev