US warns against seizure of its embassy in Kabul

The United States, fearing an Afghan or Soviet attempt to seize a Soviet soldier seeking political asylum at the US Embassy in Kabul, has told both governments it holds them responsible for the mission's security, officials said. The State Department said Afghan troops had stepped up their guard at the US mission, presumbaly in connection with the incident. While there was no specific indication they intended to rush the building, "we've learned through bitter experience in Iran not to take things for granted," an official said.

David D. Newsom, undersecretary of state for political affairs, has called in Soviet Ambassador Anatoly Dobrynin to ask for reassurances about the security of the US Embassy and the safety of its staff.