17 February 1999
(State Dept. warns of possible anti-U.S. violence) (270) Washington -- The State Department has issued a worldwide caution advising U.S. travelers abroad of the possibility that attacks by ethnic Kurds on Greek diplomatic missions as a result of Turkey's arrest of Kurdish rebel leader Abdulla Ocalan "may extend to American interests as well." Following is the State Department text: (begin text) PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesman Worldwide Caution -- Kurdish Reaction February 16, 1999 Kurds in Europe have reacted angrily to the announcement on February 15 of the transfer of PKK leader Abdulla Ocalan to Turkey. Greek diplomatic missions and personnel have been subjected to violence, and it is possible that this danger may extend to American interests as well. U.S. Government personnel and facilities are taking appropriate security measures. Americans travelling or residing abroad are urged to review their personal security in light of the above and to contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate by telephone or fax for up-to-date information on security conditions. In addition, U.S. citizens planning to travel abroad should consult the Department of State's Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, and regional travel brochures. Current information is also available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. This Worldwide Caution Public Announcement supplements the Worldwide Caution Iraq Crisis Public Announcement of December 16, 1998, and the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement of December 24, 1998, and expires March 31, 1999. (end text)