Ukraine Denounces Russian Ultimatum to Diplomats as Blackmail, Calls for Stronger Air Defense

Ukraine has rejected Russia's warning for foreign diplomats to leave Kyiv, characterizing it as blackmail aimed at intimidating the international community. Kyiv is urging its allies to bolster air defense systems in response to Russian threats of intensified strikes on the capital.

Russia had issued warnings suggesting that foreign diplomatic missions should evacuate from Kyiv, with implications of imminent military action. Ukraine views this ultimatum as an attempt to coerce the international community and isolate the country diplomatically. The warning comes amid ongoing Russian military operations and reflects the Kremlin's pattern of using threats to pressure Ukraine and its supporters. By framing the demand as blackmail, Kyiv is signaling its resolve not to be intimidated and is mobilizing diplomatic support to maintain the presence of international institutions in the capital.