Hipper: EU won't evacuate its mission from Kyiv despite Russian threats

The EU doesn't plan to withdraw its diplomatic and civilian missions from Kyiv, despite Russian threats and calls from Western countries to reduce their presence in Ukraine's capital, Anitta Hipper, Lead spokesperson for the foreign affairs and security policy of the EU, stated during a briefing in Brussels, Report informs.

According to Hipper, Brussels views Moscow's statements as an attempt to increase pressure and create an atmosphere of fear around Ukraine: "Russia is trying to spread panic with such threats. They want Ukraine to be frightened and isolated, but this will not happen. The EU continues its work in Kyiv," Hipper declared.

She emphasized that attacks on Kyiv and other cities remain a "daily reality" for civilians, and noted that EU representatives and civilian missions have also previously been targeted.

"Deliberate attacks against civilians and non-military facilities are war crimes. All commanders, perpetrators, and their accomplices will be held accountable for such violations of international humanitarian law," the official added.

Meanwhile, Paula Pinho, Chief Spokesperson of the European Commission, Russia's chargé d'affaires was summoned to EU institutions after the latest attacks to convey the EU's position.

Brussels stated that these events confirm Moscow's lack of interest in a peaceful resolution and strengthen arguments in favor of providing broader support to Ukraine, including air defense systems and financial assistance.

Pinho also reported that Rustem Umerov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council and head of the Ukrainian delegation, met yesterday in Brussels with Bjoern Seibert, Head of Cabinet for Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

"This is part of our ongoing contacts with the Ukrainian side. In particular, defense cooperation was the main topic of discussion, especially in light of recent events and the weekend attacks," Pinho noted.