In response to a recent surge in political violence in Kenya, the United States issued a warning on Thursday advising Americans against traveling to the troubled East African country. Since President Mwai Kibaki's disputed re-election on December 27, 850 people have been killed in political and ethnic violence. The killing of an opposition legislator on Thursday led to new protests and deadly clashes. The State Department described the situation in Kenya as volatile and constantly changing, prompting the temporary relocation of some U.S. officials from Kisumu to Nairobi. The State Department emphasized the potential for spontaneous violence in Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Naivasha due to the current political climate. The warning advised American citizens to refrain from traveling to certain cities and areas outside of Nairobi. It also cautioned them to be ready for potential outbreaks of violence between law enforcement and protesters or rival groups. The alert emphasized that even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent, so Americans should steer clear of all protests, demonstrations, and large public gatherings.