Blinken: USA temporarily relocates embassy from Kyiv to Lviv
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the temporary relocating of the U.S. embassy from Kyiv to Lviv, the Department of State has said.
"We are in the process of temporarily relocating our Embassy operations in Ukraine from our Embassy in Kyiv to Lviv due to the dramatic acceleration in the buildup Russian forces," the Department of State said in a press service, citing Blinken.
It is reported that the embassy will remain engaged with the Ukrainian government and will coordinate diplomatic engagement in Ukraine, as well as continue intensive diplomatic efforts to deescalate the crisis.
The Department of State also said these prudent precautions in no way undermine its support for Ukraine, stressing that the United States' "commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity is unwavering."
In addition, the United States continues its efforts to reach a diplomatic solution and remains engaged with the Russian government.
It also notes that "the path for diplomacy remains available if Russia chooses to engage in good faith."
Blinken also urged any remaining U.S. citizens in Ukraine to leave the country immediately for their safety. "U.S. citizens seeking emergency assistance in Ukraine should complete this online form, and the State Department will follow-up, as appropriate," the U.S. Secretary of State said.