WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 22nd August, 2018) US citizens should avoid Independence Day celebrations in Ukraine on Friday due to the threat of violence, according to a travel alert issued by the US Embassy in Kiev on Wednesday.
"While the Embassy has no information indicating threats to US facilities or personnel related to these events, we cannot discount the possibility of unexpected public disorder," the alert stated. "Note that even peaceful demonstrations can become violent without warning and may attract petty criminals and hooligans."
The alert urges foreign visitors to "avoid crowds and demonstrations."
The term "hooligans" typically refers to violent extremist groups known for sporting Nazi swastikas and hoods, which have become increasingly active in Ukraine and are often tolerated by police, according to published reports.
Ukraine's Independence Day commemorates the August 24 anniversary of the country's 1991 declaration of independence from the former Soviet Union.
