The State Department has issued a travel advisory to Americans traveling abroad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup due to heightened security threats.
The travel advisory was raised to a level three threat on Friday, warning travel-goers to “reconsider” heading to the global soccer tournament, taking place in various cities around Russia. Currently, there are grave concerns of terrorism and harassment in certain regions, including Chechnya and Crimea.
U.S. travelers are also told to be on alert for potential terrorist attacks near the sporting venues and other tourist locations, which could occur with little or no warning as groups are allegedly plotting attacks.
“Large-scale international events such as the World Cup present an attractive target for terrorists,” the statement read. “Although security for the World Cup will be extensive, terrorists may seek to attack event locations such as stadiums and Fan Fest viewing areas, tourist sites, transportation hubs, and other public venues.”
Additionally, Americans heading to the event are being warned about harassment and mistreatment.
The U.S. government will have reduced ability to help any U.S. citizens facing any trouble abroad since the Kremlin limited the amount of U.S. diplomatic personnel allowed to operate in Russia, according to the State Department.
The World Cup kicked off on Thursday and is scheduled to continue through mid-July. Fans from across the globe will be traveling to Russia to attend the event and surrounding activities.
