WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (Kan.) and Steve Daines (Mont.) urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken to re-open the American embassy in Kyiv to demonstrate confidence in Ukraine and its people.  

“We recognize that the danger to Kyiv has not entirely subsided, and we share concerns for the safety of our embassy personnel,” the senators wrote. “However, the United States historically has maintained embassies in nations at war, including those capitals under direct attack. Resuming normal embassy operations at once will reinforce the importance of diplomacy and America’s full support for a Ukraine whole and free.”

The full letter can be found HERE and below.

Dear Mr. Secretary:

With Ukraine’s successful defense of Kyiv and Russia’s subsequent withdrawal of forces from the areas surrounding the capital, we encourage you to fully open the United States embassy without delay. Ukraine faces enormous military, economic, and humanitarian challenges as a result of this war. America’s restored diplomatic presence in Kyiv will enhance cooperation with a democratic partner as it wages an existential defense and symbolically affirm our nation’s commitment to Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty.

We recognize that the danger to Kyiv has not entirely subsided, and we share concerns for the safety of our embassy personnel. However, the United States historically has maintained embassies in nations at war, including those capitals under direct attack. The diplomats and all who serve at our Kyiv embassy will continue a long tradition of advancing America’s relationships even under duress. We note that several European allies recently have relocated their embassies to the capital.

Our continued absence in Kyiv, no matter how prudent up to now, signals a lack of confidence in Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and the diplomatic missions under its protection. Yet President Zelenskyy and the nation he leads have removed any doubt about Ukraine’s commitment to winning this war. With critical material support from the United States and our allies, Kyiv still stands. Resuming normal embassy operations at once will reinforce the importance of diplomacy and America’s full support for a Ukraine whole and free. 

We ask that you provide a response detailing plans for staffing our embassy in Kyiv, including the conditions necessary to restore an embassy presence at pre-war levels. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

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