February 12, 2021
Location: Russia
Event: Media sources indicate that on Sunday, February 14, demonstrators are planning to gather on Old Arbat in Moscow at 2 PM. The location of the demonstration may move, and streets may be closed in the surrounding area. There may be similar unauthorized demonstrations in other cities.
U.S. citizens should avoid this demonstration and any related activities. Recent, unauthorized demonstrations have seen a heavy police presence and a large number of arrests.
Given the possibility of crowds, you should be aware of guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, which includes avoiding large crowds, distancing yourself from others, and wearing cloth face coverings in public settings.
Actions to Take:
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Avoid the area.
- Avoid crowds.
- Avoid demonstrations.
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/Westerners.
- 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
- Afterhours – +(7) (495) 728-5000
- moscowacs@state.gov
- Website – U.S. Embassy Moscow
U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg
- +7 (343) 379-3001
- Afterhours – +7 (917) 569-3549
- ConsulYekat@state.gov
- Website – U.S. Consulate General Yekaterinburg
U.S. Consulate General Vladivostok
- +7 (423) 230-0070
- Afterhours – +7 (914) 791-0067
- vladcons@state.gov
- Website – U.S. Consulate General Vladivostok
State Department – Consular Affairs
- 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Russia Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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