Wed Nov 20 14:08:47 UTC 2024: ## US Embassy in Kyiv Closes Amid Fears of Major Russian Air Attack
**KYIV, Ukraine** – The US Embassy in Kyiv announced a temporary closure on Monday, November 20th, citing specific intelligence indicating a potential large-scale Russian air attack. The closure, a precautionary measure, directs embassy staff to shelter in place, according to a statement from the US Department of State’s Consular Affairs. US citizens in Ukraine are urged to prepare for potential air raid alerts and take necessary safety precautions.
The closure comes a day after Ukraine launched US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles into Russian territory, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. These strikes, authorized by the Biden administration, coincided with the war’s 1,000th day. Russia has vowed a response and President Vladimir Putin further lowered the threshold for a nuclear response to include a broader range of conventional attacks. Moscow has repeatedly warned against the West supplying Ukraine with long-range weaponry.
Adding to the heightened tensions, the Biden administration has reportedly agreed to provide Ukraine with anti-personnel landmines. This controversial move aims to bolster Ukraine’s defenses as Russia intensifies its offensive in the east, making its fastest advances since the early days of the 2022 invasion. Russia’s offensive reportedly involves tens of thousands of troops, including North Korean soldiers, and focuses on reclaiming lost territory and targeting Ukraine’s power grid.
US officials, according to the Washington Post, express deep concern over Russia’s recent battlefield gains, prompting the increased military aid to Ukraine. The ATACMS missiles provide Ukraine with greater range to strike Russian military targets, while the landmines are intended to hinder Russian ground advances. The situation remains highly volatile, with fears of further escalation dominating the outlook.
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