United States has reopened its embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine, just hours after a temporary closure prompted by concerns over potential Russian airstrikes. US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink confirmed that the embassy had resumed operations, urging vigilance among American citizens in the region.
Earlier on Wednesday, the US embassy issued an urgent advisory warning of a possible “significant air attack” by Russia, temporarily suspending services and instructing employees to shelter in place. Other Western embassies, including those of Italy and Greece, also implemented similar measures. The heightened state of alert followed Ukrainian strike within Russian territory using US and UK-supplied long-range missiles.
Ambassador Brink addressed the situation on X, formerly Twitter, stating, “The US Embassy in Kyiv has resumed services following a temporary shelter-in-place suspension earlier today. We continue to encourage US citizens to remain vigilant, monitor official Ukrainian sources for updates, and be prepared to shelter in place if an air alert is announced.”
Zelenskyy Calls for Calm Amid Escalating Tensions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged citizens to remain calm, emphasizing that fear-driven narratives benefit Russia. “Panic-inducing messages circulated today only help Russia,” he stated in his nightly address, while advising the public to heed air raid alerts. “We have a neighbor that is insane,” he added, underscoring the importance of remaining vigilant against potential attacks.
Ukraine’s military intelligence accused Russia of using intimidation tactics to demoralize the population. “The enemy, unable to subdue Ukrainians by force, resorts to measures of intimidation and psychological pressure on society. We ask you to be vigilant and steadfast,” it said in a statement.
War Enters New Phase
The developments coincide with the 1,000-day mark of the ongoing war, which has seen a shift in dynamics following Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied long-range missiles. The United States has also authorized the deployment of anti-personnel landmines to aid Ukraine’s defense efforts. Western nations now await a potential Russian retaliation in response to these recent escalations.