The US Embassy in Kyiv warned of a possible "significant airstrike" on Wednesday, November 20. The statement said it had received "specific information" of a potential attack and that the embassy would be closed as a precaution. US citizens were advised to take shelter immediately in the event of an air alert. The Kremlin refused to comment on the US embassy announcement.
"Stay near a bomb shelter"
Shortly after, the embassies of Spain, Italy and Greece also suspended operations due to possible security threats. In an email to Spanish citizens living in Ukraine, it recommended that they follow all instructions from local authorities and stay close to a shelter.
Meanwhile, additional roadblocks, restriction signs and barriers were put up in Kyiv. The Kyiv City Military Administration explained that security exercises will be held in the capital to improve the skills, interaction and combat capability of all structures that provide the city's defense. Such exercises are conducted systematically.
Russia has stepped up attacks on Ukrainian cities
In recent weeks, Russian forces have again stepped up their attacks on the infrastructure of Ukrainian cities. Kyiv, Odesa and other cities and regions have been subjected to missile and drone strikes. One of the most powerful strikes in recent times was delivered on November 17, when Russian troops, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, fired 120 missiles and 90 drones, mostly targeting energy facilities.
Yesterday it was reported that Ukraine had for the first time struck targets in the Bryansk region with ATASMS missiles with US permission. Russia reacted sharply and emphasized that an adequate response would be given.