Russia renews call for diplomats and foreigners to leave Kyiv, warns of more strikes

Russia renewed its call on Saturday for diplomats and foreign citizens in Kyiv to leave the city, warning that its forces will continue launching "massive retaliatory strikes" against the Ukrainian capital, according to AFP. The Russian Foreign Ministry said it "reiterated" to the diplomatic corps that foreigners and diplomats in Kyiv should depart, adding that responsibility for any negative consequences lies with those who ignore the warning. It announced that Russian armed forces will continue massive retaliatory strikes against military targets in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The capital has been specifically targeted in recent weeks, with strikes hitting bridges and causing major traffic jams. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the city faces a "very dramatic situation" due to attacks on critical infrastructure and housing. Russia issued a similar warning in early September, and its first such alert came before May 9.