U.S. diplomats on alert across Balkans after embassy attack in Belgrade

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Ambassador to Serbia has asked the State Department to evacuate some diplomats from the embassy in Belgrade following an attack on the compound.

A senior State Department official says the envoy, Cameron Munter, has asked for the department to implement an ordered departure of all nonessential personnel and the families of all American staff at the embassy. This official spoke on condition of anonymity because the department has not yet approved the request.

The step comes as U.S. diplomats around the Balkans are on alert, girding for more anti-American violence after Serb rioters stormed and torched the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade.