New York Times: Russia Thins Out Its Embassy in Ukraine, a Possible Clue to Putin’s Next Move
An earlier version of this article was published before The Times sought comment from the Russian government. The story was updated early this morning to include its response.
KYIV, Ukraine — The week before intensive diplomatic meetings began over the buildup of Russian troops on the Ukrainian border, American and Ukrainian officials watched from afar as Russia began emptying out its embassy in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital.
On Jan. 5, 18 people — mostly the children and wives of Russian diplomats — boarded buses and embarked on a 15-hour drive home to Moscow, according to a senior Ukrainian security official.
About 30 more followed in the next few days, from Kyiv and a consulate in Lviv, in western Ukraine.
Diplomats at two other Russian consulates have been told to prepare to leave Ukraine, the security official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss national security matters.
Read more ....
Update #1: Russia removing staff from Kyiv embassy: report (The Hill)
Update #2: Putin has been emptying out Russia's embassy in Ukraine (Hot Air)
WNU Editor: The Kremlin is denying these reports .... Russian foreign mission in Ukraine works as usual despite provocations — ministry (TASS). More here .... Moscow claims everything is normal after report says Russia has been quietly emptying out its diplomatic outposts in Ukraine (Business Insider), and here .... Russia responds to US media report about Ukraine embassy 'evacuation' (RT).
What's my take.
Russia started removing non-essential personnel from the embassy after this Christmas Eve incident .... Russia says Molotov cocktail thrown at consulate in Ukraine, protests to Ukraine authorities (Reuters).
I do not know if this fire-bombing happened or not. But I do that anti-Russian tensions in Kiev and elsewhere in the country are at an all-time high, and precautions are being taken.
And if the Russian embassy is evacuated.
You can take this to the bank.
A Russian military invasion and/or major military operation will be occuring within 24 - 48 hours.
3 comments:
Swell. I thought you said the Russians were not going to invade?
It's the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine
Evacuating embassy personnel sends a strong message that Putin is serious.
I'm still not convinced we will see an invasion.
WNU, but why would they invade? I dont understand the reason.
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