U.S. Warns Americans Against Traveling To Russia and Ukraine Over Border Tensions

U.S. Warns Americans Against Traveling To Russia and Ukraine Over Border Tensions

The US State Department has warned American citizens against traveling to Russia and Ukraine due to “ongoing tension along the border with Ukraine”, says an official statement issued on Sunday. 

Although last week’s meetings between senior US and Russian diplomats about the current crisis appear to have calmed the waters, the situation on Ukraine’s land and maritime borders, where Moscow has deployed soldiers remains of grave concern.

“Due to Russia’s heightened military presence and ongoing military exercises along the border region with Ukraine, U.S. citizens… considering travel to districts of [Russia] immediately bordering Ukraine should be aware that the situation along the border is unpredictable and there is heightened tension,” reads the statement.

“Given the on-going volatility of the situation, U.S. citizens are strongly advised against traveling by land from Russia to Ukraine through this region.”

On the same line, the US issued another travel warning, this time cautioning Americans against visiting Ukraine since the country is entangled in the diplomatic crisis between the two nations.

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According to the US agency, “there are reports Russia is planning significant military action against Ukraine.” 

“The security conditions, particularly along Ukraine’s borders, in Russia-occupied Crimea, and in Russia-controlled eastern Ukraine, are unpredictable and can deteriorate with little notice.” 

“Demonstrations, which have turned violent at times, regularly occur throughout Ukraine, including in Kyiv,” reads the statement. 

Owing to the same tensions, the US government has instructed the families of its diplomats in Kyiv to leave the country due to the current threat.

At the same time, US citizens have been encouraged to consider flying out as soon as possible, claiming that Washington will not be able to evacuate stranded Americans if a Russian intervention occurs.

The decision, however, is “premature,” according to Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, who claims there have been no significant changes in security conditions in recent weeks.

To date, Russia’s government has denied it has any plans to invade Ukraine. However, vacating the border will be contingent on accords ensuring NATO’s non-expansion and more.