The European Union has no intention of evacuating its diplomatic or civilian presence from Kyiv following recent Russian threats and calls from some Western countries to reduce their footprint in the Ukrainian capital.
This was stated by Anitta Hipper during a press conference in Brussels.
According to the EU, statements coming from Russia are seen as an attempt to intensify pressure and create a climate of fear around Ukraine.
“Russia is trying to spread panic through such threats. They want Ukraine to be afraid and isolated, but that will not happen. The EU continues its operations in Kyiv,” Hipper said.
She emphasized that attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities remain a daily reality for civilians, adding that EU delegations and civilian missions in the country have also been targeted in the past.
“Deliberate attacks against civilians and non-military targets are war crimes. All commanders, perpetrators, and their collaborators will be held accountable under international humanitarian law,” she stated.
According to European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho, the Russian chargé d’affaires was summoned to EU structures to convey the bloc’s position following the latest strikes.
Brussels said the incident highlights Moscow’s lack of interest in a peaceful resolution and strengthens the case for increased support to Ukraine, including air defense systems and financial assistance.
Pinho also noted that Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov recently met in Brussels with Björn Seibert, head of cabinet to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, as part of ongoing coordination between the EU and Ukraine.
She added that defense cooperation remains a key focus, especially in light of recent developments and ongoing attacks.
