The United States has issued a warning to its citizens in Ukraine to exercise heightened caution due to the risk of a large-scale airstrike by Russia on 20 November. As a precautionary measure, the US Embassy in Kyiv has announced it will be closed for the day.
The alert, published by the US Embassy in Ukraine, applies to the entire territory of the country.
“The US Embassy in Kyiv has received specific information regarding the potential for a significant air attack on 20 November. Out of an abundance of caution, the embassy will remain closed, and staff have been directed to stay in shelters,” the statement said.
The embassy has advised American citizens in Ukraine to remain vigilant and to prepare to seek immediate shelter in the event of an air raid warning. It also urged individuals to familiarise themselves with the locations of the nearest shelters and to stay updated on emergency announcements.
This precaution follows an escalation of hostilities, with Russia increasingly targeting civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine. Recent weeks have seen intensified missile and drone strikes, raising concerns of further escalations in the conflict.
The US government routinely advises its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine due to ongoing security risks associated with the war. In its latest guidance, it reinforced the importance of adhering to local safety protocols and being prepared to take swift action in the event of an emergency.
While the exact nature and scope of the potential airstrike remain undisclosed, the embassy’s warning underlines the precarious security situation in Ukraine as the war continues unabated.
