Russia has denied hitting the Embassy of Qatar in Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, as condemnation trails the damage to the building following a Russian strike on January 9.
The Foreign Ministry said Russia regards Qatar as “a friendly state and a priority partner,” stressing that diplomatic missions have never been targeted by Russian forces.
Moscow claimed the damage “was caused by a malfunction of the Ukrainian air defence system,” as there were no military or other targets in proximity to the Qatari mission.
President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of scarring the structure during an offensive involving the Oreshnik hypersonic missile, over 200 drones, and cruise missiles.
Zelensky said the incident was alarming, while Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the strikes near the EU and NATO borders as a “grave threat” to European security.
The Russian operation targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and drone production facilities in retaliation for the alleged attack on President Vladimir Putin’s residence in the Novgorod region.
Qatar has confirmed that none of its diplomats or embassy staff were harmed, and called for the protection of foreign missions, international organizations, and civilian facilities during crises.
The Foreign Ministry noted that the Russian-Ukrainian conflict can be resolved “through dialogue and peaceful means,” and reaffirmed its full support for all efforts aimed at de-escalation.
In a statement shared on X, Saudi Arabia expressed regret over “the damage sustained due to shelling” and renewed its stance on ending the Russian-Ukrainian crisis amicably.
The Foreign Ministry also demanded the safety of members of diplomatic missions and their premises, in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
