Russia Travel Advisory 2025: Extreme Risks Persist with US and Canadian Governments Warning Against All Visits

As of April 30, 2025, the highest level travel warnings remain in place for Russia. The United States Department of State has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory for Russia due to the consequences of the ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces, ongoing armed conflict, and the risk of terrorism. According to the U.S. State Department, the region has become significantly more dangerous for travelers, with escalating risks from violent conflicts, terrorism, and widespread crime. The situation is described as unstable, where the safety of travelers is compromised by the volatile geopolitical environment. Foreign nationals may face targeted threats, and the U.S. government urges citizens to reconsider any plans to visit Russia to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

The Government of Canada similarly advises its citizens to avoid all travel to Russia due to the impacts of the armed conflict with Ukraine and the ongoing risk of terrorism. The conflict has caused armed incursions and shelling near the Russian-Ukrainian border, but drone strikes, explosions, and related incidents have also reached into Russia’s interior, including cities far from the immediate border region. In addition to security risks from the conflict, travelers may also encounter restrictions on financial transactions, partial military mobilization, and limited flight options. Canadian citizens who hold Russian citizenship may be subject to mandatory military service. Officials emphasize that if you are in Russia, you should consider leaving as soon as possible via commercial means if it is safe to do so.

Travelers who remain in Russia despite these advisories should be aware that they may need to stay longer than planned, may be unable to access funds from international financial institutions, and should not expect consular assistance for evacuation in crisis situations. It is also recommended to refrain from discussing political developments in public or online, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings occur, maintain an adequate supply of cash and essential items, and monitor reputable news sources for updates. Communicating travel plans to family and friends, ensuring documents are up to date, and confirming border crossing availability are also critical steps for anyone still in the country.

The CDC also advises all travelers to Russia to pay close attention to health precautions, as well as to practice common-sense travel safety such as using official transportation, wearing seatbelts, and avoiding travel at night, particularly in rural areas. Travelers should ensure they have the appropriate driving permits and insurance if driving, and follow local laws closely.

While some travel sources, like RUSSIABLE, note that the risk for tourists staying in major cities far from conflict zones may feel low in daily life, they acknowledge that foreign ministries’ warnings reflect not just the current security reality but also political and logistical risks. There have been instances of drone attacks even in major cities like Moscow, and the unpredictable nature of the ongoing conflict means conditions can change rapidly.

In summary, all major Western governments strongly advise against all travel to Russia at this time due to heightened risks associated with the war in Ukraine, terrorism, arbitrary enforcement of local laws, limited consular assistance, and the potential for rapid deterioration of the security situation. If you are considering travel to Russia or are currently in the country, monitor safety advisories closely, keep your departure options open, and consider leaving if conditions allow.