Russian ambassador rebuked over ‘systematic’ strikes on Ukraine
Russia’s top diplomat in Australia has been summoned to make a statement, including a warning to foreign diplomats to leave the city, over Moscow’s vow to launch blizzard attacks on the Ukrainian capital Kiev.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said Monday that its country’s armed forces have begun launching “consistent and systematic attacks” on Ukrainian defense industrial facilities in Kiev, focusing on drone production facilities.
“Due to the fact that the above mentioned facilities are distributed in different regions [Kyiv]”We inform that foreign citizens, including diplomatic mission personnel and international investigation personnel, should leave the city as soon as possible,” the statement said.
Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade reprimanded Russian Ambassador in Canberra Mikhail Petrakov for threats during a meeting on Wednesday, diplomatic sources said.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong said: “Russia’s continued attacks on and intimidation of Ukraine are completely unacceptable.
“These threats against foreign embassies and international organizations in Kiev are another demonstration of Russia’s complete disregard for international law and civilian security.
“Australia is steadfast in its support for Ukraine and we call on Russia to end its illegal and immoral occupation.”
Four people were killed and widespread damage was caused in Kiev in Russia’s attacks with dozens of drones and missiles over the weekend.
Among the weapons fired by Russia was the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, which can reach 10 times the speed of sound and carry a nuclear warhead.
Australia joined nearly 50 countries in issuing a statement at the United Nations accusing Russia of reaching “a new and appalling level of aggression against Ukraine” by further intensifying its attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The countries said, “We also condemn Russia’s recent threats against diplomatic institutions and embassies in Kiev. This is something we cannot accept.”
Kateryna Argyrou, president of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organizations, said she was stunned by the severity of Russia’s attacks during her visit to Ukraine last month.
“Every city was under missile and drone attack; it was a sense of doom,” he said.
“You could really tell that people were physically exhausted from being under constant stress. Before, the mood was one of resilience and defiance.”
Petrakov arrived in Australia last September to replace former ambassador Alexey Pavlovsky.
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