Security Message to U.S. Citizens: Planned Opposition Protest on Sunday

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow informs U.S. citizens that prominent political opposition leader Aleksey Navalny plans to lead a protest rally on Sunday, September 20.  The protest could involve 40,000 participants at 1700 hours in the Maryino area of Moscow.  A large security presence is expected to be on site to monitor the demonstration.

The last protest organized by supporters of Aleksey Navalny on December 30, 2014 was followed by some arrests and limited violence.  Mr. Navalny’s supporters organized a spontaneous, non-government sanctioned protest near Red Square that same evening that resulted in additional arrests.

All U.S. citizens are strongly urged to be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate measures if planning to be in the vicinity of protest site in Maryino and the immediate surrounding area beginning at 14:00 and for the remainder of the day.  Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.

The nearest metro station in that area is Bratislavskaya on the Green line.  Ridership likely will increase during the afternoon and evening on that line.

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