AFTER Washington warned that a Russian invasion might start “any day,” Germany today, advised German citizens without a “imperative” reason to stay in Ukraine to evacuate, warning that a “military conflict cannot be excluded .”
“Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have again shot up in the last few days due to the massive movements of Russian military units near the Ukrainian border,” the German foreign ministry said.
“If you are currently in Ukraine, make sure that your presence is imperative. If that is not the case, please leave the country for the time being”.
Germany has also indicated that its diplomatic presence in Ukraine will be reduced. “We will keep our embassy open in Kyiv but cut diplomatic staff.” During a visit to Egypt, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated.
Belgium and the Netherlands have become the latest Western countries to advise its people to leave Ukraine, joining Germany. Fearing “provocations” from the West or Kyiv, Russia also announced the withdrawal of certain diplomatic personnel.
Earlier today, Non-emergency personnel were forced to leave the US embassy in Kyiv.
However, later today, Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to speak by phone with US Vice President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.
