It sounds like a nightmare out of the past: the US Embassy has warned Americans residing in Russia to flee.

The danger they’re highlighting is the possibility that Americans may be conscripted by Russian forces and compelled to fight in Ukraine.

The US Embassy in Moscow issued the stunning warning overnight as Russian president Vladimir Putin makes a renewed push into Ukraine with a partial draft mobilization.

The alert read in part, “Russia may refuse to acknowledge dual nationals’ US citizenship, deny their access to US consular assistance, prevent their departure from Russia, and conscript dual nationals for military service.”

It alerted US citizens to “Avoid all political or social protests and do not photograph security personnel at these events.” It added, “the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are not guaranteed in Russia.”

Russian authorities have already arrested US citizens participating in anti-war demonstrations across Russia, and the Embassy warned that it has “severe limitations on its ability to assist US citizens, and conditions, including transportation options, may suddenly become even more limited.”

They warned that anyone wanting to leave Russia would need to make independent arrangements now.