The United States of America has warned its citizen against traveling to Russia.
The US also asked those in Russia to leave immediately, citing harassments of their citizens and arbitrary detentions.
In a travel advisory seen by the Star, the country asked its citizens to exercise increased caution while there.
"Do not travel to Russia due to the unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces, the potential for harassment against US citizens by Russian government security officials, the singling out of US citizens in Russia by Russian government security officials including for detention,
"The arbitrary enforcement of local law, limited flights into and out of Russia, the Embassy’s limited ability to assist US citizens in Russia, COVID-19-related restrictions, and terrorism. US citizens residing or travelling in Russia should depart Russia immediately," reads the advisory.
The US noted that there are reports cash shortage in Russia adding that US credit and debit cards no longer work as a result of sanctions imposed on Russian banks.
The advisory said that there are limited flights to and from Russia due to their invasion of Ukraine, further prohibiting travels to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping, and risk of civil unrest.
"Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory and abuses by its occupying authorities."
"The US government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the Embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel, the number of US staff, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at US consulates," the advisory further said.
