US and Others shuts Embassy in Ukraine amid fears over Russia Attack
On November 20, 2024, the United States, along with several European nations including Italy, Spain, and Greece, temporarily closed their embassies in Kyiv due to heightened security concerns regarding a potential Russian air attack. This decision followed specific intelligence warnings about an imminent “significant air assault” on the Ukrainian capital, prompting the U.S. Embassy to advise its employees and citizens to shelter in place during air alerts.
The embassy closures were particularly noteworthy as they came just a day after Ukraine launched strikes into Russian territory using U.S.-supplied Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS). President Joe Biden had recently authorized Ukraine to use these long-range missiles against targets within Russia, a significant shift in U.S. policy that had previously restricted their use to within Ukraine’s borders. This escalation has raised concerns about potential retaliation from Russia, which has warned that such actions could be interpreted as direct NATO involvement in the conflict.
In addition to the U.S. Embassy’s closure, other embassies in Kyiv took similar precautionary measures. The Ukrainian government has urged its allies to remain calm amidst these developments, even as the situation remains tense with ongoing threats of missile strikes and drone attacks from Russia. The closures reflect a broader anxiety about the escalating conflict, especially given Russia’s recent adjustments to its nuclear doctrine, which now allows for a potential nuclear response to conventional attacks supported by nuclear powers like the U.S.
The situation underscores the fragile security environment in Ukraine as it continues to navigate a complex and dangerous conflict with Russia.
U.S. Shuts Kyiv Embassy Over Significant Air Attack Threat: The United States has temporarily closed its embassy in Kyiv due to specific intelligence indicating a potential significant air assault from Russia. This decision was made on November 20, 2024, as Kyiv experienced drone strikes, and the embassy advised U.S. citizens to seek shelter if air alerts were issued.
Escalation Following Ukraine’s Missile Strike: The embassy closure follows Ukraine’s first strike on Russian territory using U.S.-supplied long-range ATACMS missiles, targeting a military site in the Bryansk region. This action has heightened tensions, with Russian officials warning of repercussions against NATO countries supporting Ukraine.
Other Embassies Follow Suit: In addition to the U.S. embassy, the Italian and Greek embassies also closed due to similar threats, while the French embassy remained open but urged caution among its citizens.
Putin Lowers Nuclear Strike Threshold: In response to the escalating conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has amended his nuclear policy, stating that Moscow may consider a nuclear response if attacked by a non-nuclear state supported by a nuclear power, reflecting the increasing volatility of the situation.
Ongoing Threats and Public Safety Measures: The U.S. State Department has advised citizens in Ukraine to prepare for potential disruptions caused by air attacks, including stockpiling essential supplies like food and water due to persistent Russian assaults on infrastructure throughout Ukraine
