Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain Temporarily Shut Down Embassies in Ukraine

Key Points

1. Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have temporarily shut down their embassies in Ukraine.  
2. The closures are due to heightened risks of airstrikes across Ukraine.  
3. Citizens of these countries in Ukraine have been advised to exercise increased caution during this time.  

EU Countries Temporarily Suspend Embassy Operations in Ukraine

Four European Union nations—Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain—have temporarily closed their embassies in Ukraine, citing elevated airstrike risks as the reason for this precautionary measure.  

Initially, the embassies were to remain closed only on November 20. However, officials have now extended the closure through November 21, with the possibility of further extensions depending on the evolving situation.  

Greece Urges Citizens to Stay Safe  

In an official announcement, the Greek Embassy in Ukraine advised its citizens to avoid unnecessary movement and to remain in safe locations. The closure, it emphasized, was necessary for security reasons.  

"The Greek Embassy, for security reasons, will remain closed to the public. Please avoid commuting and stay in safe spaces."
— Greek Embassy in Ukraine

Italy Recommends Immediate Access to Shelters  

The Italian Embassy also announced its temporary closure, urging citizens to take the threat seriously and seek shelter immediately in the event of an airstrike.  

"All Italian citizens present in the country are advised to follow strict risk mitigation measures and immediately go to the nearest shelter."
— Italian Embassy in Ukraine

Portugal Predicts Multi-Day Closure  

Portugal’s embassy announced it would remain closed for several days. Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel emphasized the need for continuous risk assessment before reopening.  

"We took the decision that it would not open tomorrow, and possibly not in the next few days, with a permanent assessment of the situation. Therefore, there is a closure, but a temporary closure."
— Paulo Rangel, Portuguese Foreign Minister

Rangel reassured that temporary embassy closures have occurred multiple times since the onset of the war, stressing there is no cause for alarm.  

Spain Cautions Against Complacency  

Spain echoed the concerns of other EU nations, closing its embassy while urging citizens in Ukraine to remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution.  

This collective decision underscores the ongoing safety concerns in Ukraine amid the intensified conflict, with EU nations prioritizing the well-being of their citizens and staff.