KIEV, Aug. 20 – The U.S. Embassy in Kiev, in light of the upcoming Koktebel Jazz Party, has reminded American citizens that the United States and the European Union have instituted broad sanctions against activity in Crimea in response to Russia's continuing occupation and annexation of the peninsula.

"Russian organizers will hold the 'Koktebel Jazz Party' on August 28-30 in Crimea. Crimea remains Ukrainian territory and this event is being conducted without the permission of the Government of Ukraine. It should not be confused with the official Koktebel Jazz Festival, which will be held in the Ukrainian town of Zatoka, near Odesa, on August 23-30," the embassy said on Thursday.