US Embassy in Ukraine Shuts Down Amid Threat of 'Imminent' Air Attack by Russia

Kyiv: The US Embassy in Kyiv has temporarily closed its operations, citing information about a potential major air attack on Wednesday, November 20. The embassy announced the decision on its official X account, formerly known as Twitter, and urged US citizens in Ukraine to remain alert and prepare to shelter if an air alert is sounded. Ukraine: The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv received specific information of a potential significant air attack on Nov 20. The Embassy will be closed and recommends U.S. citizens be prepared to immediately shelter in the event an air alert is announced. https://t.co/ah0bpDfULK pic.twitter.com/m8cWXCXT2V— Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) November 20, 2024 US Embassy in Kyiv Shuts Down Amid Air Attack ThreatIn a statement shared on its website, the embassy stated, "Out of an abundance of caution, the embassy will be closed, and employees are being instructed to shelter in place." The precautionary measure reflects heightened concerns following recent developments in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Escalation After US-Made Missile Strikes The warning comes just a day after Ukraine launched US-made ATACMS missiles into Russian territory which outgoing US President Joe Biden granted permission.For months, Russia has warned that allowing Ukraine to use Western-supplied long-range missiles to strike deep into Russian territory would escalate the conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously cautioned that such actions could lead to broader consequences, potentially involving NATO countries directly in the war. Nuclear Threats on the Rise On Tuesday, President Putin announced changes to Russia's nuclear policy, lowering the threshold for a nuclear response to conventional attacks. The adjustment highlights growing risks as relations between Russia and Western nations hit their lowest point in decades.

Advertisement

US Embassy in Ukraine Shuts Down Amid Threat of 'Imminent' Air Attack by Russia

The warning comes just a day after Ukraine launched U.S.-made ATACMS missiles into Russian territory.

Advertisement