European Union summons Russian diplomats amid Kyiv security concerns

Several European Union capitals have issued statements expressing concern over Russia’s warning, which may hinder efforts to facilitate a ceasefire mediation by the EU.

Belgium and France have summoned Russian ambassadors in response to Moscow’s announcement that foreigners and diplomats should leave Kyiv before planned “systematic strikes.” The two countries described the statement as “unacceptable” and a violation of international law. Other European Union capitals, including Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and the European Union itself, have also summoned Russian envoys following similar warnings.

Russia’s Ministry of Defence stated on Monday that it plans to launch a series of strikes on defence industrial facilities in Kyiv, citing a Ukrainian drone attack last week as justification. The statement warned foreign citizens, including personnel of diplomatic missions and international organisations, to leave the city immediately.

Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxim Prevot said Russia’s actions are “a flagrant violation of international law and the Vienna Convention.” France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs stated that Russia’s actions demonstrate its “cynicism and contempt for international law.”

Russia has increased its attacks on Ukraine since a drone attack last week. Ukraine’s military denies responsibility for the strike, which it claims targeted an elite drone command unit. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged US President Donald Trump to help Ukraine with air defence systems and interceptors.

The EU is considering taking up mediation efforts in the conflict, but this idea remains contentious among member states due to concerns about engaging with Russia. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russia since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine and has had limited high-level contacts with Moscow.

Source: Al Jazeera