US Issues Level 4 “Do Not Travel” Warning for Russia, Urges Exit

The U.S. State Department has reissued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Russia, urging all Americans currently in the country to leave immediately and warning that U.S. government assistance is severely limited for citizens who are detained.

The updated advisory, reaffirmed this week, repeats warnings first issued in May and highlights what officials describe as a high and ongoing risk of wrongful detention. The State Department cautions that U.S. citizens arrested in Russia may serve their entire prison sentences without release and that even cases deemed wrongful offer no guarantee of freedom.

According to the advisory, Americans have reported being detained or questioned without clear cause or credible evidence. The department also warns that the U.S. embassy’s ability to help detained citizens is extremely limited, particularly once an individual is formally charged.

Security concerns remain elevated due to Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine, which U.S. officials say has destabilized parts of southwestern Russia. Martial law has been declared in several regions, further restricting civil liberties and freedom of movement. The advisory notes that conditions can deteriorate rapidly and without warning.

The State Department places special emphasis on risks facing dual U.S.-Russian citizens. U.S. officials warn that Russia does not recognize dual citizenship and has blocked consular access to detained dual nationals. In some cases, individuals with dual citizenship have reportedly been prevented from leaving the country or compelled to serve in the Russian military. Russia began drafting citizens in 2022, and conscription efforts remain ongoing.

Financial and logistical barriers also complicate departure. U.S.-issued debit and credit cards no longer function in Russia, and international sanctions have made electronic money transfers from the United States nearly impossible. Air travel options are limited, subject to sudden disruption, and may not be available on short notice.

“If you wish to leave Russia, you should make your own travel plans,” the advisory states. “The U.S. Embassy can only offer limited help, and transportation options could become even more restricted at any time.”

For Americans who choose to remain in Russia despite the warning, the State Department advises preparing for prolonged detention without access to U.S. consular support, assuming all electronic communications are monitored, and taking extensive personal precautions. These include preparing legal documents, sharing critical account information with trusted contacts, arranging care plans for dependents and property, and establishing clear communication protocols with family and employers.

The advisory underscores the seriousness of the risks involved and urges Americans to carefully weigh the consequences of travel to or continued presence in Russia under current conditions.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, travel.state.gov