The US Embassy in Moscow has issued a travel warning for its citizens, advising them not to travel to Russia due to unpredictable dangers following the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. It has advised US citizens already in Russia to leave the country immediately, as they face possible harassment, detention, or arbitrary enforcement of local law. The Embassy has also noted that it has limited capacity to assist its citizens, in addition to the possibility of terrorism.
US personnel, including retired or active military and civil servants, as well as private citizens in Russia, have been subjected to unreasonable interrogation and threats by Russian officials and have been victims of harassment, mistreatment, and extortion. Therefore, US citizens are advised to avoid traveling to Russia to participate in non-governmental or religious organizations.
In addition, the Embassy has noted multiple security incidents related to the Ukrainian invasion in southwestern Russia and has warned that the Russian government has declared martial law in regions bordering Ukraine, allowing for the rapid introduction of restrictive measures. He has also noted that terrorist groups, both local and international, and individuals inspired by extremist ideologies continue to plan possible attacks in Russia. Finally, it has banned US government employees from traveling to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus.