US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a telephone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday, according to the Department of State. As reported by the State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the parties exchanged views on multiple international issues including the Russia-Ukraine war, bilateral relations, and the situation in Iran. The request for the call was made by the Russian foreign minister, indicating Russia's proactive diplomatic approach.
During the conversation, Lavrov conveyed Russia's decision to launch strikes on sites in Kyiv linked to the Ukrainian military, according to a Russian Foreign Ministry statement. According to the ministry, Lavrov explained that the 'systematic and consistent strikes' were in 'response to the continuing terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime against the peaceful population and civilian sites on Russian territory'. The ministry's statement specifically noted that Russia's armed forces are starting systematic strikes on facilities located in Kyiv that are used for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as on centres where the corresponding decisions are being made. This represents a significant escalation in Russia's military response to what it perceives as Ukrainian aggression.
Lavrov also drew Rubio's attention to the Russian Foreign Ministry's statement which recommended that the US, along with other countries with diplomatic missions in Kiev, ensure the evacuation of their diplomatic personnel and other citizens from the Ukrainian capital. This diplomatic warning reflects growing tensions and potential risks for international missions operating in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
