US Embassy Warns of Credible 'Mass Casualty' Threat at Moscow Tourist Site

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has issued a security alert warning of a credible threat of a mass casualty event at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve, a popular tourist attraction. The embassy advised individuals to avoid the museum area and to remain vigilant.

The alert, issued on Saturday, stated that the U.S. government is coordinating with Russian authorities regarding the threat. It also recommended that people in the Moscow area keep their mobile phones charged, stay aware of their surroundings, and review personal security plans.

The Tsaritsyno Museum, founded in 1775, is located in the south of Moscow. The museum itself drew over two million visitors in 2022, according to Moscow's deputy mayor, and the surrounding grounds experience even higher foot traffic from local residents.

The warning comes amidst ongoing tensions and escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine. On Friday, Ukraine reportedly struck an oil refinery in southern Russia, ending a two-week pause in attacks on energy infrastructure that had been brokered by President Donald Trump. This followed a significant Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine the previous day, which killed at least 27 civilians.