Location: Russia
Event: According to social media sources, there have been calls for demonstrations throughout Russia, including in major cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, in opposition to the unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces against Ukraine. Russian authorities prohibit such demonstrations, and there have been widespread arrests of demonstrators. Even non-participating bystanders can draw scrutiny from security forces. Given the substantial police presence and mass arrests, U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and any demonstration-related activities.
The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that the Department of State’s Travel Advisory level for Russia is at “Level 4: Do Not Travel” for reasons including harassment against U.S. citizens, harassment by Russian government security officials, and the arbitrary enforcement of local law. Russian officials have unreasonably delayed U.S. consular assistance to detained U.S. citizens and have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and have convicted them in secret trials and/or without presenting evidence. Click here for the full text of the Travel Advisory for Russia.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor local and international media for updates.
- Avoid the area near demonstrations.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Review your personal security plans.
- Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Russian visa.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Moscow, Russia
- +(7) (495) 728-5577
- After hours – +(7) (495) 728-5000
- moscowacs@state.gov
- Website – U.S. Embassy Moscow
State Department – Consular Affairs
+1 202-501-4444 (overseas) or +1 888-407-4747 (from the U.S.)
Russia Country Information
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