Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani appeared on Rai2 to urge Italians to reconsider trips to Moscow. His message was clear: avoid travel to the Russian capital when possible, especially for those already present there during peak crowds or events.
As Easter approaches, Tajani noted that nearly half a million Italians are planning trips abroad. He stressed prudence and emphasized that postponing certain journeys could reduce exposure to travel risks and crowded situations in major cities like Moscow.
During the broadcast, the minister recalled the government’s longstanding guidance: postponing travel to Moscow and evaluating whether a stay in the Russian Federation is absolutely necessary. This stance has been reiterated since early March as part of a broader effort to assess travel safety amid evolving security considerations.
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously advised postponing all trips to Russia and urged travelers to weigh the necessity of their presence there. The goal was to minimize exposure to potential threats during periods of heightened risk.
Earlier that month, Tajani gave an interview to a major Italian newspaper in which the Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned citizens about the risk of terrorist attacks in Russia. Officials described the danger as something to be mindful of when planning international travel, especially to high-profile venues and crowded public spaces.
Later that evening, an incident occurred at a prominent Moscow venue. Gunmen entered a concert hall, firing on attendees, followed by explosions and a fire. The attack impacted dozens of lives and prompted immediate reactions from government and security services as investigators began to piece together the sequence of events and the motives behind the violence.
In the wake of the incident, authorities released a comprehensive chronology of the attack to keep the public informed and to support ongoing safety assessments for foreign nationals and travelers in Russia. The events underscored the importance of staying informed through official channels and adjusting travel plans in response to security developments.
Public safety remains a priority for Italian authorities, who continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance for citizens abroad. Travelers are urged to consult official travel advisories, assess personal risk, and consider prioritizing safety over convenience when contemplating trips to areas with elevated security concerns. The goal is to help people make informed decisions that protect their well-being while staying connected to the information that affects international travel plans.
For those who must travel for essential reasons, experts recommend heightened vigilance, awareness of local conditions, and adherence to local authorities and venue security measures. In uncertain times, flexibility and prudent planning can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk and ensuring safer experiences abroad.