I wrote about a Ukrainian citizen throwing a rock at Marines in the Crimean. NATO (the reason why the US Marines are there) and Ukraine are running a military exercise together.


Many Crimean city councils have passed "NATO free" city resolutions. Crimea is very pro-Russian. And some folks in the Crimean see NATO as the same thing as the US.


Being Pro-Russian almost always translates to Anti-American... But Anti-American on a government level. Typically this doesn't apply to personal interactions that adoptive families have.


The US Embassy in Kyiv sent out an Warden message about this...

From: "US Embassy Kiev, ACS"
Subject: Demonstrations in Crimea -- U.S. Embassy Kyiv Warden Message - June 8, 2006
Date: Thu, 8 Jun 2006 10:37:41 +0300


In the wake of continuing demonstrations against U.S. military forces participating in joint U.S.-Ukrainian cooperative activities in the Crimean port of Feodosiya, the American Embassy in Kyiv reminds American citizens throughout Ukraine of the continued importance of maintaining high standards of personal security and safety. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.


For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

In the event it becomes necessary, the Embassy will provide updates via this same channel and on the Embassy’s web page: kiev.usembassy.gov. American citizens are encouraged to report any security incidents or problems to the Embassy. The Embassy can be reached during working hours by calling the main telephone number at (38-044) 490-4000. The Embassy’s duty officer can be reached after hours via this same number, or by contacting (38-050) 311-1796.