Newsroom
The United States has temporarily closed its embassy in Kyiv, citing credible intelligence about a potential major airstrike on November 20. The announcement, shared by the State Department on social media platform X, urged American citizens in Ukraine to stay alert and be prepared to seek immediate shelter if airstrike alarms sound.
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
Heightened Tensions in Kyiv
Earlier, Kyiv's military administration confirmed that Ukrainian air defense systems were actively responding to a Russian airstrike targeting the capital. Reuters reporters on the ground reported hearing multiple explosions, believed to be caused by the interception of incoming missiles.
The embassy's closure reflects rising concerns about the safety of foreign personnel and citizens in Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues to escalate.
Urgent Call for Precaution
The State Department emphasized the gravity of the situation, advising Americans to monitor alerts closely and have an emergency plan in place. The temporary shutdown of the embassy is a stark reminder of the volatile conditions in Kyiv, even as Ukraine's air defenses work tirelessly to counter threats.
Meanwhile, the Greek embassy in Kyiv is also closed to the public today due to a raised alert level for a possible Russian airstrike in the Ukrainian capital. The embassy's staff, including Ambassador Alexandros Dimitrakopoulos, will remain in the building, which has a shelter, while embassy operations continue as usual. However, public access to the embassy is not allowed for security reasons.
