The State Department released a travel alert Friday ahead of the Sochi Olympics, which begin Feb. 7, cautioning travelers on a number of topics ranging from the untested medical infrastructure in Sochi to heightened concerns of terrorism in Russia.
“U.S. citizens planning to attend the Games in Sochi should remain alert regarding their personal security at all times,” the State Department advised in the statement. “U.S. citizens are urged to remain vigilant and exercise good judgment and discretion when using any form of public transportation. When traveling, U.S. citizens may wish to provide a friend, family member, or coworker a copy of their itinerary.”
“Russian authorities have indicated that they are taking appropriate security measures in Sochi in light of this. Acts of terrorism, including bombings and hostage takings, continue to occur in Russia, particularly in the North Caucasus region,” the statement read. “There is no indication of a specific threat to U.S. institutions or citizens, but U.S. citizens should be aware of their personal surroundings and follow good security practices.”
State also cautions LGBT travelers to remain mindful of Russia’s anti-gay propaganda law, explaining that the law also applies to American citizens.
Note EU-Digest: often statements like this do more harm than good when it concerns a major sport event.
Read more: State Department on Sochi: 'Remain alert' - Jose DelReal - POLITICO.com
“U.S. citizens planning to attend the Games in Sochi should remain alert regarding their personal security at all times,” the State Department advised in the statement. “U.S. citizens are urged to remain vigilant and exercise good judgment and discretion when using any form of public transportation. When traveling, U.S. citizens may wish to provide a friend, family member, or coworker a copy of their itinerary.”
In addition to issuing general travel precautions, the department also warns that the medical infrastructure in Sochi is untested on a large scale and that events such as the Olympics are “attractive targets” for terrorism. This warning follows several violent attacks in the country since October that raised questions about the overall safety of the Sochi games.
State also cautions LGBT travelers to remain mindful of Russia’s anti-gay propaganda law, explaining that the law also applies to American citizens.
Note EU-Digest: often statements like this do more harm than good when it concerns a major sport event.
Read more: State Department on Sochi: 'Remain alert' - Jose DelReal - POLITICO.com
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