Suspicious Object Prompts Evacuation of Ukrainian Embassy, Key Bridge Closure
Authorities deemed the object not a threat after an investigation.
The Ukrainian embassy in Washington, D.C., was evacuated and a major bridge was temporarily closed on Friday morning due to the discovery of a "suspicious" object, according to officials.
The U.S. Secret Service reported finding the object around 8:40 a.m., prompting a response from its agents, the Metropolitan Police Department, and other agencies.
"Out of an abundance of caution, closed several roads and the Key Bridge," a Secret Service spokesperson stated. "The investigation is ongoing and additional details will be forthcoming."
Denys Sienik, the Ukrainian charge d'affaires, confirmed to reporters that the embassy was evacuated and a "bomb squad" was called to the scene. Following an inspection, U.S. law enforcement determined that the object posed no threat.
"The area around the diplomatic mission has been reopened. Consular services will resume shortly," Sienik later added. The roads and the Key Bridge were reopened after the all-clear was given.