Russia's Foreign Ministry has issued a travel warning to its citizens, advising against trips to the U.S., Canada, and most European Union countries due to "increasing confrontation" with Western nations.
Spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced the advisory on December 11, citing escalating tensions between Russia and the West.
Zakharova particularly addressed the risks for Russians traveling to the U.S., describing such trips as "fraught with serious dangers."
She attributed the warning to what she described as a breakdown in Russian-American relations, which she claimed were "teetering on the verge of rupture" because of U.S. actions. This was reported by the Kyiv Independent.
Zakharova accused Western authorities of "hunting" Russian citizens abroad, though she did not provide specific examples to substantiate these claims.
The announcement comes amid heightened rhetoric from Moscow, particularly following the U.S. decision to approve Kyiv’s use of long-range American weapons to target Russian territory.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov responded in November by referencing updates to Russia’s nuclear doctrine, further inflaming tensions.
Concerns Over Detentions
Russia has also detained numerous U.S. citizens, with many facing lengthy prison sentences or awaiting trial.
Washington has accused Moscow of using these detentions as leverage for potential prisoner swaps.
While a high-profile exchange in August saw the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, several Americans and dual citizens remain in Russian custody.
The U.S. State Department has similarly advised against travel to Russia, warning of risks including harassment, arbitrary detention by security officials, limited flight availability, and potential terrorism.
