Russia tells embassies to leave Kyiv ahead of may 9

Russia issued an urgent warning on Wednesday calling on foreign governments to evacuate their diplomats and other personnel from Kyiv, citing the possibility of a “retaliatory strike” if Ukraine launches any attack during the upcoming Victory Day events on May 9.

Official note sent to all missions

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova confirmed that a formal note had been dispatched to every foreign diplomatic mission and international organization office accredited in Moscow. The document referenced a Defense Ministry statement from Monday, which took note of recent remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Inevitability of retaliation

The note urged foreign capitals and international bodies to treat the Defense Ministry’s warning with the “utmost responsibility” and to ensure the “timely evacuation” of diplomatic personnel and citizens from Kyiv. It explicitly warned of “the inevitability of a retaliatory strike” by Russia against the Ukrainian capital, including what Moscow called “decision-making centers,” should Ukraine carry out attacks during the May 9 Victory Day celebrations.

Zelenskyy points to Russia’s scaled-back parade

Speaking at the 8th European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Armenia, Zelenskyy noted that Russia had announced it would hold its annual Victory Day parade in Moscow without any military equipment. “If that happens, it will be the first time in many, many years. They cannot afford military equipment – and they fear drones may buzz over Red Square,” Zelenskyy said. On April 29, the Russian Defense Ministry said military equipment columns would not take part “due to the current operational situation.” Türkiye has repeatedly called for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic channels between the warring parties.