Kyiv, Ukraine, 4 October, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Russia warns diplomats and other foreign nationals against remaining in Ukraine after Moscow said its armed forces would continue large-scale strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The renewed warning comes amid intensified Russian attacks on infrastructure in the Ukrainian capital and growing security concerns for diplomatic missions.
Moscow issues fresh warning to foreign diplomats
Russia’s Foreign Ministry renewed the warning on Saturday, 3 October, telling foreign citizens, including diplomatic personnel, not to remain in or travel to Ukraine.
The ministry said Moscow had previously urged foreign nationals and diplomats in Kyiv to leave the Ukrainian capital. It claimed some had chosen to remain despite those warnings.
“We note with concern that not everyone has heeded these warnings, and that individuals are knowingly exposing themselves to mortal danger,” the ministry said.
Moscow added that responsibility for potential consequences would rest with those who disregarded its warning.
Russia vows further large-scale strikes on Ukraine
The Russian Foreign Ministry said its armed forces would continue what it described as “massive retaliatory strikes”.
Moscow claims the attacks are aimed at military facilities and are being conducted in response to Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory. Ukraine disputes Russia’s characterisation of the campaign and has accused Moscow of deliberately striking civilian areas and essential infrastructure.
The latest warning is not the first issued by Moscow. Russia said similar advice was included in a 25 May statement and subsequently communicated to foreign governments. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin also addressed the issue during a diplomatic briefing on 27 May, according to the ministry.
Kyiv bridge attack intensifies security concerns
The warning coincided with another Russian attack on Kyiv’s Northern Bridge across the Dnipro River.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said Saturday’s strike wounded two people and damaged the road surface and trolleybus overhead wires, restricting traffic across the strategically important crossing.
Russian attacks have increasingly affected key infrastructure in Kyiv. Moscow says such sites support Ukrainian military operations, while Ukrainian authorities say civilian infrastructure and residents are being put at increasing risk.
European diplomatic presence remains in Kyiv
Despite the warning, foreign governments have continued diplomatic activity in the Ukrainian capital.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday, 4 October, accompanied by executives from German defence companies. Air-raid sirens and explosions were heard during his visit as Russia continued attacks on the capital.
The visit highlights the wider European dimension of the latest escalation. Ukraine remains heavily dependent on European military, financial and diplomatic support, while governments across the EU continue to assess the security risks facing their representatives in the country.
What happens next for foreign missions?
Russia warns diplomats as Moscow signals that its intensified air campaign will continue. Foreign governments will therefore have to keep reviewing security arrangements for embassy staff and visiting officials.
There has been no general withdrawal of foreign diplomatic missions from Kyiv. Merz’s visit also demonstrates that senior European officials continue to travel to the Ukrainian capital despite Moscow’s warning and the increased frequency of attacks.
The immediate security situation will depend on the scale and location of further Russian strikes. Moscow has publicly said its campaign will continue, while Kyiv has pledged to respond to intensified Russian attacks, raising the prospect of continued escalation as Ukraine approaches winter.
