The United States Embassy in Russia issued a formal advisory urging its citizens to leave the country promptly. The notice was posted on the embassy’s official website and is meant to guide American residents and travelers through a rapidly evolving security situation.
According to the message, U.S. citizens are advised to avoid travel to Russia, and those who are already in the country or traveling there should depart at once. The notice notes that options for international travel or commercial flights are currently limited, and any travel plans should be organized with care. The guidance emphasizes that circumstances can change quickly, and delays could become significant as conditions on the ground shift.
On September 21, Russian authorities announced a partial mobilization aimed at reinforcing forces deployed in Ukraine. This development has broad implications for cross-border movements, consular support, and safety planning for foreign nationals in Russia. The announcement has heightened concerns about access to essential services and the ability to leave the country if needed.
There is a risk that Russia may not recognize dual citizenship or may limit certain rights for individuals holding more than one passport. In practice, this could affect access to consular assistance, and in some scenarios, could influence exit options from the country. The advisory stresses that travelers and residents with dual citizenship should be aware of potential restrictions and should plan accordingly to protect their safety and legal status.
Officials cautioned that current exit routes are extremely limited and are often not available without advance preparation. People seeking to depart should expect potential bottlenecks and delays at border points, and should be prepared for changes in travel permissions or schedules that could emerge without warning.
It is noted that land routes for vehicles and buses remain available in some corridors, though these channels can experience fluctuations in reliability and capacity. Travelers are urged to verify the latest conditions and to coordinate with the appropriate authorities before attempting any cross-border travel by land.
Citizens considering departure are urged to act without delay. The embassy stresses that those who aim to exit should do so as soon as practical, taking into account personal safety, financial considerations, and the potential for sudden restrictions or changes in policy that could affect travel plans.
The diplomatic mission has warned that assistance for its citizens may face significant limits. In addition to the possibility that evacuations or exits could be curtailed, the overall environment for consular support may be constrained as the situation evolves. Citizens should remain aware of updated guidance and take prudent steps to make secure arrangements for travel and accommodation during any period of heightened risk.
Since the mobilization announcement, large numbers of men of military eligibility have left Russia, with many seeking asylum or safe passage through neighboring states such as Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Finland. This exodus reflects wider concerns about safety, personal freedom, and the unfolding geopolitical dynamics connected to the conflict in Ukraine. The situation remains fluid, and travelers and residents are advised to monitor reliable information sources and to maintain flexible plans should conditions change unexpectedly.