The United States reopens its embassy in Kyiv after three months

Video summary of the war Ukraine - Russia: May 17 13:03

(CNN) —

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced Wednesday that the country has reopened its embassy in Kyiv, after the facility was closed three months ago due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"Today we officially resume operations at the US Embassy in Kyiv. The Ukrainian people, with our security assistance, have defended their homeland against Russia's unrestrained invasion, and as a result, the stars and stripes fly over the embassy once again. We are proud and continue to support the government and people of Ukraine as they defend their country from the Kremlin's brutal war of aggression," Blinken said in a statement.

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Blinken reflected on the sustained commitment of the United States to the government of Ukraine and its people.

"Three months ago, we lowered our flag from the US embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine, just days before Russian forces crossed the border to carry out the unprovoked and unjustified war that President Putin chose. When we suspended operations at the embassy, ​​we made one thing very clear: while we would relocate US embassy staff for their safety and security, this would in no way impede our commitment to and support of the Ukrainian people, government, and civil society , as well as our allies and partners," the secretary added.

Blinken noted that the government had been working to reopen the embassy since its closure.

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"We underlined our commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We pledged to continue our assistance and started working for the day when we could return to Kyiv. Now that day has come," he added.

However, Blinken did not specify how many US diplomats would operate from the embassy.

Although he noted that additional security conditions are in place, with "our enhanced security measures and protocols," to keep returning US officials safe.

"We are committed to meeting the challenges ahead. The war continues. Russian forces inflict death and destruction on Ukrainian soil every day. Millions of Ukrainians are displaced from their homes and mourn the loss of their loved ones. With determination, We reaffirm our commitment to the people and government of Ukraine, and look forward to carrying out our mission from the US Embassy in Kyiv," Blinken said.

EmbassyWar in UkraineRussia invasion of UkraineKyiv