The Russian Embassy in Kenya warned its citizens that Finance Bill protests planned for Thursday, June 27, were likely to turn chaotic.
As such, an issue was given to all Russian citizens to stay in their residences unless absolutely necessary.
The warning came days after Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura remarked that it was likely external financiers were funding the demonstrations due to Kenya’s Russian foreign policy.
“To the attention of citizens in Kenya: A new wave of demonstrations is expected in Nairobi and other cities on June 27,” the warning read in part.
“Do not visit crowded places, do not leave your place of residence unless necessary.”
Russian diplomats and other ex-pats were told that in case they got caught up in the protests to seek emergency consular assistance.
Mwaura had warned Gen Z on Saturday, June 23, from being misused by foreigners who were funding the protests to undermine Kenya’s sovereignty.
“The other day he (President William Ruto) spoke about Russia's invasion. He stated that it is affecting us even though we cannot receive wheat flour from Russia because we do not produce enough here in Kenya. There are people with problems with that,” Mwaura had spoken of the financiers of the protests.
Mwaura’s view was adopted by Kenya Kwanza leadership led by National Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala who alleged foreigners were funding the protests.
On Wednesday, the Azimio coalition demanded that President Ruto release the list of the financiers of the anti-finance bill demonstrations.
Russia’s warning came hours after a similar directive for Indian citizens living or working in Kenya.
“In view of the prevailing tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are advised to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement and avoid the areas affected by the protests and violence till the situation clears up,” the High Commission of India in Nairobi has stated.
Additionally, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States have also issued alerts to its citizens.
