Russia Threatens Kyiv Strikes Over Moscow Parade Disruption, EU Diplomats Remain
Russian propaganda threatens strikes on Kyiv and diplomatic missions if Moscow's 9 May parade is disrupted. The EU maintains its diplomatic presence, calling Russia's threats a cynical escalation. This follows widespread ceasefire violations despite Ukraine's declared truce.
Russian propaganda channels are spreading messages about possible strikes on Kyiv, including the Ukrainian Parliament, government quarter, Cabinet of Ministers, and Office of the President, if the military parade in Moscow is «disrupted.» These narratives also threaten strikes against diplomatic missions of Armenia, Latvia, and Japan.
This follows Russia's failure to uphold a ceasefire proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Previously, Russia urged foreign states to evacuate diplomats from Kyiv, citing «risks of disruption» to 9 May celebrations in Moscow. The EU, however, stated it would not change its diplomatic presence in Kyiv.
European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni called Russia's actions a cynical attempt to shift responsibility for its aggression, emphasizing that the EU would not yield to pressure. He noted that Russian strikes have previously hit diplomatic facilities in Kyiv, including the EU delegation.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated Kyiv received no official ceasefire proposals despite Russian claims. Ukraine declared a ceasefire starting 6 May, but Ukrainian sources reported 1,820 violations on the morning of 6 May. Russia then launched a mass attack with over a hundred drones, hitting residential infrastructure. The Kremlin announced a unilateral ceasefire only for 8–9 May, amidst threats of new Kyiv strikes.