The warning comes as Russia has alleged there was a drone attack against Putin’s residence and deployed nuclear-capable hypersonic missiles near NATO borders.
Russia Releases Footage Of Alleged Drone Targeting Putin’s Residence
The U.S. State Department has reaffirmed its strongest travel warning for Russia, urging Americans not to travel to the country for any reason and calling on U.S. citizens already there to leave immediately, citing dangers of the ongoing war in Ukraine, the risk of wrongful detention, and the possibility that they may be used as “bargaining chips.”
In an advisory reissued on Dec. 29, the department maintained Russia at Level 4: Do Not Travel, a designation first imposed in May and reserved for countries presenting extreme safety and security risks. While the advisory level itself was unchanged, officials said the summary was updated to reflect continuing dangers to U.S. nationals, including being targeted for mistreatment or extortion.
“U.S. citizens may serve their entire prison sentence without release,” the advisory warned. “The risk of wrongful detention of U.S. citizens remains high. Even if a case is determined wrongful, there is no guarantee of release.”
The department said Russian security services have repeatedly detained and questioned U.S. citizens without credible evidence, including on false charges, and have denied fair legal treatment in some cases. Officials warned that Russian authorities do not always notify the U.S. Embassy when Americans are detained and may delay or deny consular access altogether.
“Russian authorities have a history of wrongfully detaining U.S. nationals and using them as bargaining chips,” the advisory states, noting that Russian law allows foreigners to be punished for treason, which can include working for organizations officials view as acting against Russian interests.
The advisory also noted severe constraints on U.S. diplomatic operations in Russia. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow operates with reduced staff and limited travel authority, while all U.S. consulates in the country remain closed.
Dual U.S.-Russian nationals face heightened risks, the State Department said, as Russia does not recognize U.S. citizenship for individuals it considers Russian citizens. Authorities have blocked consular access to detained dual nationals, prevented some from leaving Russia, and forcibly conscripted others into military service.
“Do not travel to Russia for any reason,” the State Department said in the advisory, reiterating that the risks to U.S. citizens remain severe and unpredictable.
For Americans who nonetheless choose to travel to or remain in Russia, the department urged extensive preparations, including arranging legal documents, sharing sensitive information with trusted contacts, establishing a communication plan, and preparing for prolonged detention without outside assistance.
By Tom Ozimek
