Doha has expressed its deep regret following damage to its embassy building in Kyiv during a barrage of strikes on the Ukrainian capital last night. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that all diplomats and embassy staff are safe and unharmed.
In a statement released today, the Ministry emphasized the critical need to protect embassies, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and civilian infrastructure during times of crisis, urging all parties to ensure the safety of personnel in accordance with international law.
The statement reiterated Qatar’s unwavering position advocating for a resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict through dialogue and peaceful means, in line with the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. Qatar also expressed its full support for all international efforts aimed at de-escalating the situation.
Earlier today, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that a Russian attack overnight had damaged approximately 20 residential buildings in Kyiv and its surrounding areas, in addition to the Qatari embassy. Zelenskyy stated that the strikes resulted in the death of four people. He further mentioned that a drone strike damaged the Qatari embassy.
President Zelenskyy also noted that Qatar is assisting in mediating discussions with Russia regarding prisoner of war exchanges.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing since February 2022. Russia insists that Kyiv abandon its aspirations to join Western military alliances as a precondition for ending the conflict, a demand Ukraine views as an infringement on its sovereignty.
