This Public Announcement was issued on October 02, 2006 to remind American citizens traveling or living in Russia that there remains a heightened potential for terrorist actions, including attacks against civilians.  This situation is likely to continue for some time.  This supersedes the Public Announcement of April 4, 2006 and expires on March 31, 2007.

Acts of terrorism including bombings and hostage taking have occurred in Russia over the last several years.  Bombings have occurred at Russian government buildings, hotels, tourist sites, markets, entertainment venues, schools, residential complexes, and on public transportation including the subway and scheduled commercial air flights.  Hostage taking incidents have included a raid in 2004 on a school that resulted in horrific losses of life of children, teachers, and parents.  In October 2005, 200-300 gunmen attacked police and military facilities in a city in the North Caucasus region.

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Presently, there is no specific indication that American institutions or citizens are targets but there is a general risk of American citizens being victims of indiscriminate terrorist attacks.  American citizens in Russia should be aware of their personal surroundings and follow good security practices.  Americans are urged to remain vigilant and exercise good judgment and discretion when using any form of public transportation.  When traveling, Americans may wish to provide a friend, family member, or co-worker a copy of their itinerary.  Americans should avoid large crowds and public gatherings that lack enhanced security measures.  Travelers should also exercise a high degree of caution and remain alert when patronizing restaurants, casinos, nightclubs, bars, theaters, etc., especially during peak hours of business.

The North Caucasus region is of special concern.  Due to continued civil and political unrest throughout much of the Caucasus region, the Department of State already warns U.S. citizens against travel to Chechnya and all areas that border it:  North Ossetia, Ingushetia, Dagestan, Stavropol, Karachayevo-Cherkessiya, and Kabardino-Balkariya.  U.s. government personnel are generally prohibited from traveling to these areas, and American citizens residing in these areas should depart immediately as the safety of Americans and other foreigners cannot be effectively guaranteed. 

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American citizens living in Russia or traveling there for even a few days are strongly urged to register with the embassy or nearest consulate general.  Registration will allow the embassy to provide direct information on the security situation as necessary.  Registration is done on-line and can be done in advance of travel.  Information on registering can be found at the embassy web site, www.usembassy.ru, or at the Department of State's Consular Affairs website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs

As the department continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.