The U.S. embassy in Kyiv closed on Wednesday after receiving specific intelligence about an imminent airstrike threat to the city. The embassy’s decision to evacuate staff and shelter American citizens highlights the increasing risks to diplomatic personnel and citizens in Ukraine as tensions between the U.S. and Russia continue to escalate.
The embassy’s warning, which advised American citizens in Ukraine to take shelter in place, follows a pattern of regular air attacks on Ukrainian cities. However, this particular warning is seen as a significant escalation. The embassy cited intelligence of a “significant air attack” that was planned for the day, triggering the closure and security measures.
🚨🚨🚨Alert: US State Department and the US Embassy in Kiev, Ukraine received intelligence of a 'pending massive air attack' on November 20, 2024, by Russian forces!!
"Out of an abundance of caution, the Embassy will be closed, and Embassy employees are being instructed to… pic.twitter.com/dGz5EPgq3j
— US Civil Defense News (@CaptCoronado) November 20, 2024
Alongside the U.S. embassy, Spain and Greece also closed their embassies in Kyiv. The British government is reportedly considering similar action, closely monitoring the situation and preparing to act if necessary. British officials have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of their citizens in the region, working in coordination with U.S. and Ukrainian officials to assess the threat.
🇺🇸🇺🇦 NEW: US closes its embassy in Kiev in preparation for a potential significant air attack pic.twitter.com/ePxi9Ieqjw
— HOT SPOT (@HotSpotHotSpot) November 20, 2024
Let's all pray the US Embassy in Kiev getting bombed is the extent of Putin's retaliation for the Biden-authorized, US-enabled ATACMS strike inside of Russia.pic.twitter.com/h1hVikzjXH https://t.co/0mmuUztNFQ
— Mises Caucus (@LPMisesCaucus) November 20, 2024
This heightened security comes just one day after Ukraine launched an ATACMS missile, supplied by the U.S., into Russian territory. This action has raised alarm in Moscow, which has warned that any attacks on Russian soil would be considered acts of war. The use of U.S.-made missiles marks a dramatic shift in policy, signaling a deeper U.S. involvement in the conflict and increasing the chances of direct confrontation.
Ukrainian air defences successfully intercepted dozens of drones and missiles launched by Russia overnight, but concerns about further escalation remain. With embassies now under increased scrutiny and military tensions at an all-time high, the situation in Ukraine remains highly volatile, with global security hanging in the balance.