MOSCOW - The Russian Emergencies Ministry will send airplanes to Yemen to evacuate Russian citizens who want to leave the country, Itar-Tass news agency reported on Thursday.

Citing a spokesman with the ministry, the report said the Emergencies Ministry will send two planes to Yemen on Friday by the instructions of the Russian government.

Earlier in the day, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said Russia has already started evacuation of its nationals from Yemen, and may take additional measures to ensure the safety of Russian nationals in the country.

"In current conditions, we are paying prior attention to the safety of Russian citizens staying in Yemen," Lukashevich said, adding that some Russian diplomats and their family members have already been taken home.

However, Lukashevich didn't say exactly what measures could be taken by Russia.