'Heightened threat of missile attacks': US issues new security alert for Americans in Kyiv

The United States Department of State on Wednesday issued a new warning to American nationals living in and around the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv that Russia may engage in missile strikes.

"In light of the recent uptick in strikes across Ukraine and inflammatory rhetoric from Moscow, the Department of State cautions U.S. citizens of an ongoing heightened threat of missile attacks, including in Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast," the alert reads. "The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to observe air alarms, shelter appropriately, follow guidance from local authorities, and refer to additional safety information from a previous Security Alert provided below."

The potential escalation could be in response to a dual drone attack on the Kremlin, which Moscow deemed an assassination attempt on President Vladimir Putin.

READ MORE: Moscow alleges Putin assassination attempt as Ukrainian drones reportedly hit Kremlin

Although no injuries were reported in the incident and Ukraine has denied any involvement, Russian Security Council Deputy Chair and ex-President Dmitry Medvedev called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to be "physically eliminated," writing on Telegram that "after today's terrorist attack, we have no other options."

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