Travel Alert: US and Canada Warn Citizens Against All Travel to Russia in 2025 Due to Extreme Security Risks

Listeners, the latest travel advisories for Russia are unequivocal: multiple governments, including the United States and Canada, have issued their strongest-level warnings advising against all travel to Russia amid ongoing security risks, the war in Ukraine, and serious diplomatic tensions. The U.S. State Department reissued its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning for Russia on May 8, 2025, explicitly stating that American citizens should not travel to Russia for any reason. This advisory underscores not just the risks associated with the conflict in Ukraine, but also the U.S. government’s extremely limited ability to provide help to citizens in Russia, especially outside of Moscow, where the embassy operates with reduced staff and consular services have been suspended. In the chilling words of the advisory, “there is no guarantee that a U.S. citizen will be afforded consular access or released before their entire prison sentence is served” if detained.

Canada has mirrored this warning, instructing all citizens to avoid any travel to Russia because of the ongoing armed conflict, the risk of terrorism, and the unpredictability of the situation. Canadians in Russia are urged to consider leaving by commercial means while they are still available. The Canadian government warns that Canadians holding Russian citizenship may be subject to mandatory military service, and that restrictions on financial transactions, limited flight options, and potential partial military mobilization could affect foreign visitors and residents alike. Canadians who choose to stay are strongly advised to maintain a low profile, avoid political discussions in public or online, and keep an updated supply of essentials due to the unpredictability of local conditions.

Recent months have seen escalations including drone strikes, explosions, and fires deep inside Russian territory, as well as security crackdowns and restrictions that can change with little warning. Travelers who do elect to remain are cautioned that they may have to stay longer than expected, may not be able to access international funds, and should not rely on their government for evacuation assistance.

While some travel agencies and tour operators describe normalcy in Russia’s major cities, ongoing international sanctions and the unpredictable security environment present constant challenges. The practicalities of obtaining visas and insurance or using telecommunications in Russia have become more complicated than in previous years.

In summary, listeners considering travel to Russia in 2025 should be aware that multiple governments continue to strongly advise against any travel due to the severe risks, lack of consular support, and unpredictable security threats. Those currently in Russia should seriously consider all available options to leave and closely monitor trustworthy news sources for the latest developments.