Did you know that in the past 3.5 years, we have had to evacuate 11 U.S. embassies?

As most of my readers know, I’ve traveled the globe for the past 40 years, working with various governments on topics from peacebuilding to conflict resolution. In many cases, I have found myself working closely with the U.S. State Department and have met many U.S. ambassadors and Foreign Service staff around the world. I have a profound respect for the American staff who live and work in these foreign service positions, often in high-risk countries. Even in seemingly low-risk areas, the dangers can be very real.

I’ve personally been part of three different U.S. embassy evacuations in three different countries and years. Witnessing the evacuation of a U.S. embassy when done correctly is one of the most impressive operations I’ve ever seen. It’s a meticulously coordinated effort, happening only when all else fails. When that moment comes, it’s time to pack it up in burn bags and go. Ideally, such scenarios should be rare, reflecting the strength and stability of U.S. leadership.

However, much to my surprise, in the past 3.5 years under this administration, we’ve not only seen the outbreak of two new wars but have also evacuated 11 U.S. embassies. Folks, this is a big problem. This isn’t just about the numbers; it’s a signal of the world’s current opinion of the United States. It speaks volumes about our global image, which has undoubtedly taken a hit.

From the violent streets of Haiti to the tumultuous political landscape of Sudan, each evacuation tells a story of increasing instability and threats. These frequent evacuations highlight a volatile global landscape and the significant risks faced by our diplomatic missions. They reflect broader issues in U.S. foreign policy and its ability to maintain international stability. Understanding these events isn’t just about recognizing the problems; it’s about finding solutions and strengthening our global position.

Our diplomatic missions should be symbols of stability and security, not targets for evacuation. It’s time for a reevaluation and a strategic overhaul to ensure that we can protect our interests and our people abroad. 

Our global image is more than just a reflection of our power; it’s a testament to our commitment to peace, security, and stability. 

Let’s make sure it’s one we can be proud of.

Facts:

Over the past 3.5 years, the U.S. has seen an unprecedented number of embassy closures and evacuations. These actions, totaling 11 evacuations under President Biden’s administration, have been driven primarily by escalating conflicts, political instability, and security threats in various regions.

Key Reasons for Embassy Closures

1. Political Instability and Conflict:
   • Burma (Myanmar): Following a military coup in February 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon was evacuated due to the volatile political situation and subsequent violence in the country.
   • Chad: After the death of Chadian President Idriss Déby in April 2021 and ensuing instability, the U.S. Embassy in N’Djamena was evacuated as rebel forces approached the capital.
   • Afghanistan: The chaotic withdrawal of U.S. troops in August 2021 led to a rapid Taliban takeover, necessitating an urgent evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, marked by tragic loss of life in a terrorist attack during the evacuation process.
2. Civil Wars and Armed Conflicts:
   • Ethiopia: The Tigray War prompted the evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa in November 2021 due to threats from rebel forces.
   • Sudan: In April 2023, following attacks on an American convoy and escalating civil war, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum was evacuated with the assistance of special operations forces.
   • Niger: Political turmoil and violent protests, including an attempted coup, led to the evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Niamey in August 2023.
3. Terrorism and Security Threats:
   • Nigeria: Rising terror threats and a specific attack on a U.S. convoy in May 2023 led to the evacuation of non-emergency staff from the embassy in Abuja.
   • Haiti: Continuous violence, including gang wars and political instability, resulted in multiple evacuations of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince between 2021 and 2024.
4. Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Related Conflicts:
   • Ukraine: The impending Russian invasion in February 2022 led to the preemptive evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. The embassy resumed operations later that year as the conflict dynamics shifted.
   • Belarus and Russia: Following the invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. Embassy in Minsk was closed, and non-emergency staff were evacuated from the embassy in Moscow due to the associated risks.

Impact and Considerations

The record number of embassy closures during this period highlights the global volatility and the risks faced by diplomatic missions. These closures not only disrupt diplomatic relations but also affect consular services for American citizens abroad. The need for military involvement in several evacuations underscores the severity of the threats faced by U.S. personnel.

These actions are part of broader strategic and security responses to protect American interests and personnel. The closures also reflect the dynamic and often dangerous environments in which diplomatic missions operate, necessitating rapid and decisive actions by the U.S. State Department.

Understanding these events offers insight into the geopolitical landscape and the challenges of maintaining a diplomatic presence amid crises. This period serves as a testament to the complexities of international diplomacy and the ongoing efforts to safeguard U.S. interests worldwide.

  Citations: The Daily Signal U.S. Embassy Sudan Wikipedia