Russia Warns U.S. to Evacuate Kyiv Ahead of Planned Strikes

Moscow has issued a direct warning to the United States, urging the evacuation of diplomats and American citizens from Kyiv as it prepares for a new wave of attacks on the Ukrainian capital.

"The strikes will target decision-making centers and command posts."

Key Developments

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov informed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a phone call on Monday that Russia would launch "systematic and consistent strikes" against Ukrainian military facilities and "decision-making centers."

The Russian government issued a formal statement urging foreign citizens, diplomatic personnel, and international organizations to leave Kyiv, citing preparations to target facilities involved in designing, manufacturing, and programming drones.

Specific Warnings

• Russia warned Kyiv's residents not to use military or government facilities and infrastructure.
• The statement emphasized that strikes will focus on "decision-making centers and command posts."

Diplomatic Context

The call between Lavrov and Rubio took place at Lavrov's request, according to U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott.

Discussions covered:

• The Russia-Ukraine war
• Bilateral relations
• The situation in Iran

Lavrov expressed regret over the impasse in Russia-Ukraine peace talks, which had been led by the United States last year but stalled over concessions of Ukrainian territory to Russia.

CNBC reported that it had reached out to U.S. and Ukrainian governments for comment but did not receive an immediate response.