The US government has ordered the families of US diplomats stationed in Kyiv to leave the country.
The option had been in the air for a few days. Finally, on Sunday, the US State Department ordered the evacuation of the families of diplomats from Kiev “ due to the continued threat of a Russian military operation “.
Local staff and non-essential staff may leave the Embassy if they wish and US nationals residing in Ukraine should consider now to leave the country by commercial flights or other means of transportation, explains a press release from the US State Department.
” The security situation, especially along the Ukrainian borders, in Russian-occupied Crimea and in Russian-controlled Donetsk, is unpredictable and could deteriorate at any time. “, adds the press release.
“ U.S. nationals in Ukraine should be aware that a Russian military operation anywhere in Ukraine would seriously affect the U.S. Embassy’s ability to provide consular services, including assistance to U.S. citizens departing Ukraine. “warns the State Department.
The department calls on the American community in Ukraine to educate themselves on ” what the U.S. government can and cannot do to help you during a crisis abroad “.
The question of the mobilization of American soldiers
The State Department also advises against all travel to Ukraine due to the possibility of a Russian attack. The decision comes as fears of a Russian invasion grow, our correspondent in New York recalls, Loubna Anaki.
On Sunday, the head of American diplomacy once again warned Moscow against any incursion into Ukraine, again mentioning potential sanctions. But while Washington has said so far against any mobilization of American soldiers, the New York Times reports that Joe Biden may change his mind.
The daily explains that the president met this weekend with the heads of his staff to study all the options. And sending soldiers would no longer be totally out of the question. The United States could send 1000 to 5000 soldiers to reinforce their presence in the countries of Eastern Europe. Reinforcements that could be multiplied by 10 if Vladimir Putin decides to invade Ukraine.