New Travel Alert for U.S. Citizens Residing In or Traveling to Russia

The Department of State has issued a new travel alert, warning U.S. citizens in Russia. The “ongoing tensions with Ukraine, the potential for increased public demonstrations, and anti-American actions in Russia” were cause for the alert to be issued.

U.S. citizens in Russia should be aware of the heightened military presence and on-going military exercises of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation along the Ukrainian border. The Department of State recommends all U.S. citizens either living or traveling in Russia, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive necessary safety and security information. STEP also makes it easier for the closest U.S. Embassy to help you in time of need.

“The U.S. government currently has no information concerning active military conflict inside Russia as a result of regional tensions or of any threat specific to U.S. citizens.  However, all U.S. citizens located in or considering travel to the border region, specifically the regions bordering Ukraine in Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, and Rostov Oblasts and Krasnodar Krai, should be aware of the potential for escalation of tensions, military clashes (either accidental or intentional), violence, and threats to safety and security.  Media accounts note there has been sizable Russian military buildup in those regions and there are reports of an increased presence of Russian neo-Nazi, radical nationalist, and extremist groups in those regions”.

The Department of State recommends American citizens avoid all public demonstrations, large crowds, and public gathers that may lack enhanced security measures. These demonstrations may occur anywhere throughout Russia at anytime and can increase potential confrontation and violence. “Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.  Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security”.

What recommendations does the Department of State have for you to stay safe?

• Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution.
• Read the Country Specific Information for the Russian Federation.
• Refer to the "Traveler's Checklist" on the State Department's website.
• Current information on safety and security can be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from within the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• Follow the Department of State on Twitter and on Facebook for safety information and updates.
• Find emergency contact information in Russia at the bottom of the travel alert on the Department of State’s website.