US Embassy in Russia Issues Immediate Departure Warning Due to Danger

"Risk of Arbitrary Arrest or Unlawful Detention"
US State Department Maintains Russia Travel Warning at Level 4

Cars lined up at the Russian border heading to Georgia [Image source=Yonhap News]

The U.S. Embassy in Russia has urged its citizens residing in Russia to leave the country immediately, citing a high risk of detention due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

On the 12th (local time), the U.S. Embassy in Russia posted a travel advisory on its website, stating, "Citizens should exercise increased caution as there is a risk of arbitrary arrest or unjust detention by local intelligence authorities," and urged U.S. citizens living or traveling in Russia to depart immediately.

The embassy warned, "Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Russian intelligence authorities may harass, detain, or arbitrarily enforce laws against U.S. citizens, and there is also a risk of terrorism."

Regarding this, the embassy explained, "Russian intelligence authorities have been arresting U.S. citizens on false charges and specifically targeting Americans for detention and harassment," adding, "They have ignored fair and transparent procedures and sentenced individuals guilty in secret trials without solid evidence."

It also warned, "Russian authorities have been arbitrarily enforcing local laws against U.S. nationals who are religious figures and have launched suspicious criminal investigations targeting Americans involved in religious activities." Accordingly, the embassy repeatedly emphasized that its citizens should avoid traveling to Russia to work or volunteer for non-governmental organizations or religious groups.

Previously, in September last year, when Russia issued a mobilization order for 300,000 reservists, the U.S. government also warned its citizens residing in Russia to leave immediately due to concerns that dual nationals might be conscripted.

Currently, the U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 4 travel advisory banning travel to Russia for its citizens. Level 4 is the highest risk category among the four travel advisory levels.