The European Union summons Russian envoy in response to attack on delegation in Kyiv
BRUSSELS — In a bold move, the European Union has formally summoned the Russian envoy in Brussels following a devastating strike on the bloc’s delegation in Kyiv.
“No diplomatic mission should ever be a target,” declared High Representative Kaja Kallas on Thursday as she made the announcement.
The Kremlin’s chargé d’affaires to the EU, Karen Malayan, now faces the repercussions of the overnight attack, which is part of Moscow’s campaign to spread terror and chaos. The strike has resulted in the death of at least 14 individuals, with dozens more left injured and widespread destruction across the city.
Two Russian missiles struck within a mere 50 meters of the delegation in a span of just 20 seconds.
“While the world seeks a path to peace, Russia responds with missiles,” Kallas expressed earlier on Thursday. “The overnight attack on Kyiv demonstrates a deliberate choice to escalate tensions and undermine peace efforts. Russia must cease the violence and engage in negotiations.”
The Vienna Convention of 1961 mandates protection for diplomatic and consular premises against intrusion or damage, yet the Kremlin has shown little regard for international norms throughout its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Additionally, Ursula von der Leyen expressed her “outrage” at the barrage and confirmed that no members of the delegation had been harmed.
“This serves as another stark reminder of the high stakes involved,” remarked the president of the European Commission in a brief statement delivered to the public.
“It is evident that the Kremlin will stop at nothing to instill fear in Ukraine, resorting to indiscriminate killings of civilians – men, women, and children – and even targeting the European Union.”
Von der Leyen vowed to intensify pressure on the Russian war machine with a 19th package of EU sanctions set to be unveiled “soon”. Simultaneously, she highlighted plans to explore new avenues to utilize Russia’s frozen assets, valued at approximately €210 billion within EU territory, to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities and reconstruction efforts. — Euronews
