US Embassy warns of credible threat of attack at Moscow museum
The United States Embassy in Moscow has issued an urgent warning about a possible attack at one of the Russian capital's best-known historic sites.
What the embassy said
In a statement on Saturday, 31 October 2026, the embassy said it was aware of a credible threat of an event that could cause mass casualties at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve. It advised American citizens to avoid the site that day, stay alert and avoid crowds, and said the US government was coordinating with Russian authorities.
Russia's response
Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) confirmed it had received information from its American counterparts about possible preparations for a terrorist attack in Moscow and said it was taking appropriate action. Russian media reported that the museum reserve was temporarily closed and that police restricted access to the surrounding park.
Background
Tsaritsyno is a large 18th-century palace and park complex in the south of Moscow, popular with tourists and families. The warning is reminiscent of March 2024, when the US Embassy warned of a possible attack on large gatherings in Moscow shortly before gunmen attacked the Crocus City Hall concert venue, killing more than 140 people. The rare cooperation between US and Russian security services comes at a time of high tension between Russia and the West over Ukraine and Europe.
What happens next
No attack had been reported at the time of writing. Russian authorities are expected to give further updates on their security operation.
- The embassy says there is a credible threat at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve.
- Russia's FSB says it received the warning from US partners.
- The museum was reportedly closed temporarily.
