Warden Messages 2008

Warden Message - U.S. Embassy Pristina, December 7, 2008

This Warden Message is to inform U.S. Citizens that on Tuesday, December 9, the European Union rule of law mission (EULEX) is expected to take over duties and responsibilities from the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) for police, justice, customs, and other rule of law functions in Kosovo.   While this transition has been well-planned and coordinated, the Embassy urges all U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance in light of recent public demonstrations and political issues related to this transition.  The Embassy is not aware of any planned demonstrations.
Spontaneous demonstrations take place in Kosovo from time to time in response to world events or local developments.  We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.  American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website, http://pristina.usembassy.gov, as well as the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website, www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found.  The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html, which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad.  In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  American citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/
The Embassy is located at 30 Nazim Hikmet St. in the Dragodan area of Pristina.  The telephone number is (381) 38-5959-3000, e-mail: consularpristina@state.gov.  The web site is http://pristina.usembassy.gov/.