Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Targeted by Russian Missile Attack: What It Means

Portugal's Embassy in Kiev Hit by Russian Attack

The Portuguese embassy in Kiev was struck during a Russian missile attack on Friday, as confirmed by Paulo Rangel, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries. The Portuguese government has expressed its intention to file a formal protest with Moscow.

Image Credit: Sergey Dolzhenko - EPA

Damage Assessment

The damage to the embassy was described as minor, with broken glass and damaged doors. Rangel emphasized that this incident should be addressed diplomatically.

In addition to the Portuguese embassy, diplomatic missions from Argentina, Albania, and Montenegro were also affected, as multiple diplomatic facilities are located within the same building.

Diplomatic Response

Rangel condemned the attack, stating, "This is highly condemnable. Any attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine deserves our condemnation. However, it is absolutely unacceptable for there to be attacks that impact or target diplomatic facilities."

He also mentioned that the Chargé d'Affaires of the Russian Federation was summoned to the Ministry since the ambassador is not in Lisbon, to present the formal protest. According to Rangel, it is unacceptable by all international diplomatic rules for there to be impacts or targets on diplomatic missions in Ukraine's capital.

Security Measures

Rangel reassured the public that the security of the embassy has always been ensured with systematic reinforcements. He noted that over the past three years, embassy staff have occasionally needed to work remotely due to safety concerns, highlighting the ongoing risks involved.

"It is clear that under no circumstances can we tolerate impacts or targeting of any diplomatic facility of any country," he asserted.

This stance reflects Portugal's position towards the Russian Federation, with further actions anticipated at a higher diplomatic level in due time.