
US Embassy warns of credible 'mass casualty' threat at popular Moscow tourist attraction
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow issued a security alert warning of a potential 'mass casualty event' at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve on October 31.
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow issued a security alert Saturday warning people of a potential 'mass casualty event' at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve in Moscow. The embassy specifically warned people to avoid the Tsaritsyno Museum area and to 'stay alert, and avoid crowds.'
Museum details
Founded in 1775 as a summer home for Russia's Catherine II, the Tsaritsyno Museum is now a popular tourist attraction in Russia's capital. The museum itself attracted more than two million visitors in 2022, according to Moscow's deputy mayor Natalya Sergunina.
The surrounding grounds, enjoyed by Moscow's local citizens for physical activity and dog walking, see even more foot traffic, according to The Art Newspaper.
Security measures
The U.S. Embassy's alert also included a warning to people in the Moscow area to keep cell phones and other batteries charged, stay aware of surroundings, and to review a personal security plan.
The U.S. government is coordinating with appropriate Russian authorities on a response
Regional tensions
The alert was issued as tensions in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. On Friday, Ukraine struck an oil refinery in southern Russia, ending a two-week pause on energy infrastructure attacks brokered by President Donald Trump between the warring nations.
The previous day, Russian drone and missile strikes in Ukraine killed at least 27 civilians, according to the Wall Street Journal. This is a developing story with updates expected as the situation unfolds.