The United States has issued a warning to its citizens in Ukraine, urging them to exercise increased caution due to the risk of a significant airstrike by Russia on 20 November. As a safety measure, the US Embassy in Kyiv has announced it will remain closed for the day.
The advisory, shared by the US Embassy in Ukraine, extends to the entire country.
“The US Embassy in Kyiv has received specific information about the potential for a major air attack on 20 November. Out of an abundance of caution, the embassy will be closed, and staff have been instructed to remain in shelters,” the statement read.
The embassy has advised American citizens in Ukraine to stay alert and be ready to move to shelters immediately in the event of an air raid siren. It also encouraged individuals to identify the nearest shelters in advance and stay informed through emergency announcements.
This warning comes amid an escalation of hostilities, with Russia intensifying its attacks on civilian and critical infrastructure across Ukraine. Recent weeks have seen an uptick in missile and drone strikes, fuelling concerns about further conflict escalation.
The US government continues to recommend that its citizens avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine due to persistent security risks stemming from the war. In its latest advisory, it emphasised the importance of following local safety guidelines and being prepared to respond swiftly in emergencies.
While the exact details of the potential airstrike remain unclear, the embassy’s caution highlights the volatile security environment in Ukraine as the conflict persists.
This announcement also aligns with growing international criticism of Russia’s military operations, particularly strikes targeting civilian infrastructure, which have been widely condemned.
US citizens in Ukraine are encouraged to monitor official updates, maintain a high level of awareness, and prepare contingency plans.
For additional support, American nationals are advised to reach out to the embassy’s emergency services or refer to online resources for safety preparation.
