U.S. Embassy Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
December 18, 2017
This message is a routine security reminder for U.S. citizens. As the holiday season approaches, please take a moment to consider your personal security. Whether you are remaining in the area or traveling, it is important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings.
Terrorist groups including ISIS, al-Qa’ida, their associates, and those inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens wherever they are. Terrorists are increasingly relying on less sophisticated means of attack, targeting civilians who gather in parks, social events, theaters, and similar venues that are considered “soft targets.” Terrorists have also changed their method of attack to use vehicles to strike pedestrians. Such attacks are difficult to stop; remaining vigilant and alert, however, is the best way to keep yourself from harm. For more information, please see the Worldwide Caution from December 6, 2017
In addition, the recent announcement recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel has inflamed anti-American sentiment, which could be exploited by radical groups to support attacks against Americans.
The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security, including reviewing your personal security plans and maintaining awareness of your surroundings.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel websitefor the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Kyrgyzstan Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, located at 171 Prospect Mira, Bishkek 720016, at +(996) (312) 59 7000, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +(996) 0312-597-733.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
- Follow us on Twitterand Facebook.
- The Department of State’s Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) provides several resources to enhance the safety and security of the U.S. private sector abroad. Additional information on OSAC can be found on govor by following OSAC on Twitter.
