Here’s what Americans need to know.
The U.S. government has issued an urgent warning to Americans currently inside Russia, telling U.S. citizens to leave the country immediately due to escalating dangers tied to war, political instability, and the growing risk of detention.
The U.S. State Department has renewed its highest-level “Do Not Travel” advisory for Russia, citing extreme threats including terrorism, arbitrary law enforcement, and the targeting of Americans by Russian authorities.
The advisory, reissued this week without changes, comes as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues to intensify, with no clear end in sight.
U.S. Officials: Help Is Extremely Limited
According to the warning, the U.S. government has very limited ability to help Americans who encounter trouble inside Russia.
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has drastically reduced staff, and U.S. consulates throughout the country have suspended operations. In practical terms, that means Americans detained or questioned may be on their own.
“U.S. citizens in Russia should leave immediately,” the advisory states.
“Russian officials often question, threaten, or detain Americans without cause.”
History of Americans Arrested on False Charges
The State Department warns there is a documented pattern of Russian security services arresting Americans on politically motivated or fabricated accusations.
“Russian authorities have denied Americans fair treatment and convicted them without credible evidence,” the advisory explains.
Officials stress that once detained, Americans may face lengthy imprisonment with little access to legal protections.
Electronic Devices and Social Media Pose Serious Risks
Americans are also warned that all electronic devices and communications should be assumed to be monitored inside Russia.
Travelers are advised to avoid bringing unnecessary phones, laptops, or tablets—and to log out of all social media accounts before arrival.
“Do not access social media while in Russia,” the advisory warns.
U.S. citizens are further advised to prepare legal documents in advance, including a will, insurance beneficiaries, or power of attorney—an unusually stark recommendation that underscores the severity of the risk.
Sanctions Leave Americans Without Access to Money
Due to ongoing U.S. sanctions, American debit and credit cards no longer function in Russia. Electronic money transfers from the United States are described as “nearly impossible,” creating serious financial risks for travelers.
Tourists who choose to ignore the warning are told to be prepared for detention for an unknown period of time, with no guarantee of consular assistance.
Putin Claims Drone Attack Near Presidential Residence
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently claimed that Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack near a presidential residence in Russia’s Novgorod region.
Russian officials alleged that 91 long-range drones were intercepted by air defenses. Russia’s defense ministry released footage showing drone debris and claimed the device carried a high-explosive warhead intended to strike civilian targets.
Martial Law Gives Authorities Broad Powers
Large portions of Russia’s border regions with Ukraine have been under martial law since October 2022.
Under these emergency powers, authorities can:
- Impose curfews
- Seize private property
- Restrict travel and movement
- Detain foreigners
- Forcibly relocate residents
- Ban public gatherings
The advisory warns that individuals have been detained for “acting against Russia’s interests,” a charge that can be broadly interpreted.
U.S. Issues Additional Travel Warnings Worldwide
The State Department has also issued other recent travel alerts as global tensions rise.
Growing hostilities between Thailand and Cambodia prompted a separate warning for Americans traveling in Southeast Asia.
The U.S. Embassy in Thailand cautioned U.S. citizens to avoid travel within 50 kilometers (31 miles) of the border due to armed clashes and unpredictable security conditions.
