EU rejects Russian threats, keeps Kyiv mission open

The European Union has responded to Russian threats against foreign diplomats in Kyiv, stating its representation will remain operational in the Ukrainian capital and that Moscow will not deter European support for Ukraine. European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand said Russia's threats, made on October 3, show the Kremlin is losing the war and losing its nerves. He confirmed no changes to the EU delegation's work in Kyiv, as Moscow again urged foreigners to leave the city. The EU is preparing its largest-ever sanctions package against Russia and has approved 28.3 billion euros in defense purchases for Ukraine this year, plus 6.6 billion euros in direct military aid. This follows reports some Western embassies were preparing evacuation plans.