Americans Warned to Avoid Moscow Gatherings as Concerns of Russian Attacks Grow

The U.S. State Department's embassy in Moscow issued a security alert urging American citizens to steer clear of large gatherings in Russia's capital city amidst reports indicating "imminent plans" of extremist attacks.

In the advisory released on Thursday, the State Department disclosed its surveillance of information suggesting that extremists might target significant assemblies, such as concerts, within the following 48 hours.

Americans told to 'avoid' gatherings in Moscow, Russia amid reports of extremists' 'imminent plans' to attack https://t.co/8mriwwkxDx

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"The Embassy is monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, and U.S. citizens should be advised to avoid large gatherings over the next 48 hours," the agency stated in the alert.

Residents were cautioned to evade crowds, stay updated through local media outlets, and remain vigilant of their surroundings due to the escalated threat level.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow has consistently counseled Americans residing in Russia to adopt safety measures.

In February 2023, the State Department directed all U.S. citizens in Russia to depart immediately.

"U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Russia should depart immediately," cautioned the U.S. embassy in Moscow. "Exercise increased caution due to the risk of wrongful detentions."

In a direct message, the department underscored, "Do not travel to Russia."

All Americans were advised to promptly seek a means of exiting the country, with a reminder that U.S. debit or credit cards are ineffective in Russia, and the electronic transfer of funds has become increasingly challenging due to sanctions.

"Russian security services have arrested U.S. citizens on spurious charges, singled out U.S. citizens in Russia for detention and harassment, denied them fair and transparent treatment, and convicted them in secret trials or without presenting credible evidence," appended the embassy.

The growing safety concerns continue following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and America's sanctions against Putin in return.