The US Embassy in Kiev has advised Americans not to ignore any potential air-raid sirens and to shelter appropriately, warning that the security situation could deteriorate rapidly following an attempted drone attack on the Kremlin, which Russian officials have accused Kiev of conducting.
The US State Department issued a security alert on the “heightened threat of missile attacks” across Ukraine on Wednesday night, citing a “recent uptick in strikes across Ukraine and inflammatory rhetoric from Moscow.” Earlier in the day, Russian officials warned of “retaliation” for the drone attack on the Kremlin.
“Be aware that even if the incoming missile or drone is intercepted, falling debris represents a significant risk,” the US Embassy said in the alert.
They added that any American still in Ukraine must have “a contingency plan that does not rely on US government assistance,” and should depart the country “when it is safe to do so.”
Two small unmanned aircraft were taken down over the Kremlin using electronic warfare measures, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s office announced on Wednesday morning. The Kremlin described the attack as a “preplanned terrorist act” by Ukrainian forces and an attempt on Putin’s life.
Kiev has denied responsibility. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre claimed on Wednesday that the US “is not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders.”