Russia ramps up threats against Ukraine; Moscow wants to ‘destabilise’ Europe

Russia has intensified its rhetoric against Ukraine, cautioning of "systematic and consistent strikes" on Kyiv and urging foreign nationals and diplomats to evacuate the capital. These warnings followed recent heavy bombardments of the city. Russia cited an alleged attack on a school dormitory in Russian-occupied Luhansk as justification for the escalated threats, an accusation Ukraine denied, stating its forces struck a Russian drone unit headquarters.

In a coordinated response, the European Union and several member states, including Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, and Poland, summoned Russian ambassadors or chargés d'affaires to formally protest the escalation. EU officials firmly rejected Russia's calls for diplomatic missions to leave Kyiv, deeming the threats an "unacceptable escalation" aimed at generating panic. They affirmed that their diplomatic presence in Ukraine's capital would remain unchanged.

Many European officials characterized Russia's warnings as a tactic to sow fear and a sign of desperation amid its struggles on the battlefield. This recent escalation follows a temporary ceasefire earlier in May 2026, which both sides accused each other of violating.