The United States temporarily shut its embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday, citing “specific information” about a potential major airstrike on November 20. This precautionary move comes amid rising tensions in the Russia-Ukraine war following Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied ATACMS long-range missiles against Russian targets.
In a statement, the embassy urged U.S. citizens in Ukraine to remain vigilant, saying, “Out of an abundance of caution, the Embassy will be closed, and employees are instructed to shelter in place.”
The embassy advised Americans in Ukraine to:
– Identify safe shelters in advance of air alerts.
– Stay informed through local media updates.
– Follow instructions from Ukrainian authorities and first responders in case of an emergency.
This heightened alert follows Ukraine’s recent deployment of U.S.-made ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) missiles to target locations inside Russia. The Biden administration lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s use of these weapons as the war marked its 1,000th day.
President Joe Biden had authorized the strikes, emphasizing support for Ukraine’s defense while seeking to avoid escalating the conflict further. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cryptically commented, “Missiles will speak for themselves.”
In response to the ATACMS strikes, Russian President Vladimir Putin approved revisions to Russia’s nuclear doctrine. The updated policy broadens scenarios for nuclear weapon use, including significant conventional attacks on Russia, such as drone strikes.
Moscow has repeatedly warned that NATO countries could be considered direct participants in the war if they allow Ukraine to use Western-made missiles to strike within Russian territory. This situation has further deepened the risks of escalation in the ongoing conflict.
