US Closes Embassy in Kyiv After Ukraine’s ATACMS Strike on Russia Raises Threats of Retaliation
The United States temporarily shut down its embassy in Kyiv on Wednesday due to heightened threats of air attacks. This move follows Ukraine’s use of US-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike a target inside Russia, which could lead to an escalation of the ongoing conflict.
The US State Department confirmed that the closure was a result of “ongoing threats of air attacks.” Embassy staff were instructed to stay sheltered, and American citizens were advised to prepare for potential air alerts. Other European embassies, such as Italy and Greece, also suspended their operations in Kyiv, while the French embassy remained open but urged caution.
This embassy closure came after Ukraine targeted a Russian arms depot with ATACMS missiles, a move made possible by new permissions from the Biden administration. Moscow has strongly condemned these attacks, seeing them as a significant escalation. There are growing fears of retaliatory actions from Russia, which could extend to NATO countries.
Russian Psychological Warfare and Fear of More Attacks
In response to the embassy shutdown, Ukrainian officials warned of a Russian psychological operation meant to spread panic. Fake messages circulated online claimed that a major missile and drone strike was imminent. Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (GUR) urged citizens to stay vigilant and be aware of disinformation, which aims to undermine Ukrainian morale.
Amid these threats, Ukraine’s air force issued an air raid alert urging civilians to seek shelter. Russian missile and drone attacks on civilian infrastructure, especially targeting energy facilities like power and water systems, continue to disrupt life in Ukraine.
A Growing Threat from Russia
Andriy Kovalenko, head of Ukraine’s Centre for Countering Disinformation, warned that Russia is preparing for more missile strikes. He noted that Russia has been stockpiling missiles, including Kh-101, Kalibr, and ballistic missiles, for a series of attacks aimed at Ukraine. The ongoing missile threat remains a serious concern for both military and civilian targets.
As tensions rise, Ukraine braces for further Russian retaliation, and the international community remains on high alert.
