WASHINGTON, D.C. – With many Americans locking in trips for the year ahead, the U.S. Department of State is refreshing its travel advisories for a wide range of destinations, especially Russia. Some countries see small changes as local conditions move up or down.

One place, though, remains under the Department’s strongest warning. Russia is still listed as Level 4, “Do Not Travel”. That notice was reissued in late December 2025, reflecting ongoing security concerns and the strained political climate.

The travel advisory system runs from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel). Level 4 is used for places where serious harm is more likely and where U.S. help on the ground may be limited or unavailable. Many popular holiday options, including the Bahamas, Thailand, and much of Europe, sit at lower levels. They often come with reminders about crime, local unrest, or a general terrorism risk. Russia stands apart because the warning combines war-related danger with the risk of Americans being targeted by authorities.

Why Russia Stays at Level 4

Russia has been under a Level 4 advisory for years, with tighter language since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The latest update signals that conditions have not improved. The State Department advises U.S. citizens in Russia to leave straight away. It also stresses that the U.S. Embassy in Moscow has reduced staffing, and U.S. consular services in the country are suspended, which limits support in an emergency.

Officials point to four key reasons for keeping the “Do Not Travel” advisory in place:

The war in Ukraine: Areas near the conflict bring clear danger, including explosions, drone strikes, and violence that can spread beyond expected zones. Risks can still affect major cities well away from the front line.
Harassment and wrongful detention: U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, may face questioning, threats, or detention without clear evidence. Some detentions have been linked to political pressure.
Unpredictable use of local laws: Authorities can impose sudden restrictions, including curfews, limits on movement, property seizures, and detention of foreigners. Challenging these actions can be difficult.
Terrorism risk: Threats of attacks remain a concern, and the limited ability of U.S. officials to help makes the situation more dangerous.

Travel advisers also warn about practical barriers. Commercial flights can be limited. U.S. credit cards may not work because of sanctions, and money transfers from the United States can be very hard. A State Department spokesperson said Americans who ignore the advisory “take on extreme risk”.

Other Countries With Level 4 “Do Not Travel” Advisories

Russia is not the only country under the highest warning. In early 2026, around 20 to 21 countries are rated Level 4, often due to armed conflict, terrorism, civil unrest, or severe instability in government. The list spans Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, showing how uneven global security remains.

Countries currently listed as Level 4 “Do Not Travel” include:

Afghanistan
Belarus
Burkina Faso
Burma (Myanmar)
Central African Republic
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Haiti
Iran
Iraq
Lebanon
Libya
Mali
North Korea
Somalia
South Sudan
Sudan
Syria
Ukraine
Venezuela
Yemen

The reasons vary by country. Some are driven by active wars (such as Ukraine, Yemen, and Syria). Others relate to insurgency and terrorism (including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Somalia). Several advisories also highlight kidnapping, wrongful arrest, or detention risks (including Iran and North Korea). Haiti is cited for widespread gang violence and kidnapping threats. Venezuela faces serious crime, civil unrest, and weak infrastructure.

Some well-visited places avoid Level 4 but still sit at Level 3, “Reconsider Travel”. Parts of Mexico, Colombia, and Jamaica are often flagged at that level because crime risks can be higher in certain areas.

Changing Advice for Popular Destinations

Unlike the long-running warnings for Russia and other Level 4 countries, guidance for tourist favourites is updated more often. During 2025, the Bahamas remained at Level 2, with warnings linked to violent crime in Nassau and Freeport. Thailand also sat at Level 2, with notes about demonstrations and petty theft. Several European countries, including the UK, Spain, and Germany, saw Level 2 updates tied to terrorism concerns.

Antarctica even received a rare Level 2 advisory because of environmental hazards. Meanwhile, countries often seen as low risk, such as Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, stayed at Level 1. A diplomatic source described these updates as “real-time assessments”, where events like protests or public health issues can quickly change the picture.

Travel analysts say U.S. travel advisories can shape bookings and planning. Many insurers won’t cover trips to Level 4 countries. Some policies may also limit cover if travellers ignore Level 3 or higher warnings. Even so, some people still go, often due to family needs or personal reasons.

Practical Travel Advice in a Risky Year

As global tourism continues to recover, with forecasts pointing to international travel nearing pre-pandemic levels by mid-2026, the State Department urges travellers to stay alert. It recommends signing up for the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates, buying strong travel insurance, and checking the latest notices on travel.state.gov.

One frequent traveller summed it up simply: “Warnings aren’t bans, but they’re there for a reason. Russia and places like it aren’t worth the risk.”

The takeaway is straightforward. Plan, check updates often, and put safety first. For now, Russia remains a destination the U.S. government says Americans should avoid.