"The U.S. Embassy in Podgorica advises U.S. citizens there is an active security situation at the U.S. Embassy in Podgorica. Avoid the Embassy until further notice," the message on its website read.
It asked Americans in the city to monitor local media for updates, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
At 00:30, in front of the @USEmbassyMNE building in #Podgorica, #Montenegro an unknown person committed suicide with an explosive device. Immediately before, that person threw an explosive device from the intersection near the Sport Center into the US Embassy compound. (1 of 2)
— Govt. of Montenegro (@MeGovernment) February 22, 2018
Montenegro government confirmed later that the embassy has been attacked with explosives. A man reportedly threw explosive device that believed to be a hand grenade, at the embassy, but blew himself up. There were no additional reports on injuries or destruction.
Following the incident, the embassy decided to suspend visa services.
"All visa services at the embassy are cancelled for today, Thursday, February 22. Interviews will be rescheduled as soon as possible. American Citizen Services will be available today on an emergency basis," the embassy said on Facebook.
The Russian Embassy in Podgorica has strengthened its security measures after the incident, the press service of the diplomatic mission in Podgorica told Sputnik.The embassy noted that it was working in regular mode and there were yet no recommendations for the Russians in connection with the attack.
