State Department: Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - Public Announcement, May 28, 1999

Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - Public Announcement
May 28, 1999

With the commencement of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) military operations on March 24 against Serbia-Montenegro, the possibility exists for retaliation against U.S. citizens and interests in the Former Yugoslav Republic (FYR) of Macedonia. On March 25, a violent demonstration took place outside the U.S. Embassy in Skopje.

Because of the nature of the demonstration, the Department of State authorized on March 25 the departure from the FYR of Macedonia of U.S. Embassy Skopje personnel in non-emergency positions and the family members of Embassy personnel. While there have been no further incidents of violence directed at the Embassy, the Department of State has deemed it prudent to extend the period of authorized departure.

U.S. citizens are urged to consider their personal security situation and take those actions they deem appropriate to ensure their safety. Americans choosing to remain in the FYR of Macedonia should avoid crowds and demonstrations, keep a low profile, and stay alert for changes in the security situation.

U.S. citizens in the country are urged to contact the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Skopje to register and to obtain updated information on travel and security.

For further general information on travel to the FYR of Macedonia, consult the latest Department of State Consular Information Sheet for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

This Public Announcement supersedes the Public Announcement dated March 26 to note the continuation of authorized departure status for Embassy Skopje and expires on July 30, 1999.