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The Briefing

US shuts Kyiv embassy ahead of potential air strike

Nov 20, 2024
Olga Tokariuk, Monocle's Ukraine correspondent and Chatham House Academy fellow, offers her expert insights on the escalating situation in Ukraine. She discusses the temporary closure of the U.S. embassy in Kyiv due to looming Russian missile threats, amplifying concerns among Ukrainians. Tokariuk also sheds light on the U.S. military support landscape, including the controversial decision to send anti-personnel landmines. Global political shifts, especially in Austria and the impact of sanctuary cities in Los Angeles, round out a riveting conversation on pressing international issues.
31:52

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • The temporary closure of the US Embassy in Kyiv amid fears of an imminent Russian missile attack has raised significant concerns among Ukrainians about their safety.
  • Austria's proposed three-party coalition aims to counter rising far-right extremism while addressing critical economic challenges following recent political elections and gas supply issues.

Deep dives

Concerns Surround US Embassy Closure in Kiev

The temporary closure of the US Embassy in Kiev due to fears of a major Russian missile attack has left many Ukrainians puzzled. Despite recent daily missile and drone strikes by Russia, the decision to close the embassy seemed somewhat unexpected, particularly since such attacks typically occur in the early hours. Ukrainians are questioning whether the embassy's actions indicate a significant impending threat, especially in light of past tensions. The US Embassy clarified that it was not anticipating a nuclear threat, easing some concerns but sparking speculation about the nature of potential attacks, leaving citizens on alert but not panicked.

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