Americans who hold a non-essential position in Ukraine for the embassy are also allowed to leave the country.
Russia has gathered tens of thousands of troops on the border with Ukraine. Western countries fear a Russian invasion and have repeatedly warned President Putin of severe repercussions. Next week, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will meet with the leaders of the G7, the seven most powerful industrialized countries, about new sanctions against Russia.
The Kremlin denies having any plans of attack, but wants NATO troops to withdraw from Eastern Europe.
“There are reports that Russia plans to take significant military action against Ukraine,” the ministry said in a statement. Especially along Crimea, the east of the country and along the border, “security conditions are unpredictable and can deteriorate rapidly.”