Russia warns Rubio: US citizens should leave Kyiv ahead of ‘systematic’ strikes

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reiterated that Washington is still open to mediating the Russia-Ukraine war, even as tensions surge again on the battlefield, according to CNBC. The report highlights fresh warnings from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who told Rubio that Moscow plans “systematic” strikes on military-linked and decision-making sites in Kyiv.

The call reportedly came at Russia’s request, with Lavrov also advising that foreign diplomats and citizens should evacuate the Ukrainian capital ahead of potential escalations. Rubio, meanwhile, stressed that the United States remains committed to pushing for a diplomatic resolution despite the renewed violence.

The exchange underscores the fragile state of peace efforts, with both sides signaling continued military pressure while keeping diplomatic channels technically open. Analysts say the situation reflects how quickly ceasefire hopes can be disrupted by battlefield developments.