Russian Federation Travel Alert - Events in Ukraine The U.S. government currently has no information concerning active military conflict inside Russia as a result of regional tensions or of any threat specific to U.S. citizens.àHowever, all U.S. citizens located in or considering travel to the border region, specifically the regions bordering Ukraine in Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, and Rostov Oblasts and Krasnodar Krai, should be aware of the potential for escalation of tensions, military clashes (either accidental or intentional), or other violence, and the potential for threats to safety and security.àMedia accounts note there has been a sizable Russian military build-up in those regions and there are reports of an increased presence of Russian neo-Nazi and radical nationalist and extremist groups in those regions. U.S. citizens considering travel to Russia should evaluate their personal security situation in light of current political tensions and the possibility of violence or anti-U.S. actions directed against U.S. citizens or U.S. interests.ààThe Department of State advises that U.S. citizens should avoid all public demonstrations, whether properly authorized by local officials or not, and avoid any large crowds and public gatherings that lack enhanced security measures.àDemonstrations related to the conflict may appear anywhere throughout Russia, at any time.àThese demonstrations may increase the possibility of confrontation and violence.àReview your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.àMaintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.ààWe strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Russia enroll in the Department of StateâÂÂs Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).àSTEP enrollment allows you to receive the DepartmentâÂÂs safety and security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency.àIf you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Regularly monitor the State DepartmentâÂÂs website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution, and read the Country Specific Information for the Russian Federation.àFor additional information, refer to the "Traveler's Checklist" on the State Department's website.àCurrent information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free from within the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.àThese numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).àFollow us on Twitter and on Facebook.