The US State Department has issued a warning to Americans planning to attend the Sochi 2014 Olympics.
The US State Department has issued a warning to Americans planning to attend the winter Olympics in Russia next month to “remain attentive regarding their personal security at all times.”
The travel alert comes after two separate bombings occurred in December in the southern city of Volgograd, 400 miles from Sochi in which at least 34 people were killed.
Å“There is no indication of a specific threat to US institutions or citizens, but US citizens should be aware of their personal surroundings and follow good security practices,” the department said on Friday.
Å“US citizens are urged to remain vigilant and exercise good judgment and discretion when using any form of public transportation. When traveling, US citizens may wish to provide a friend, family member, or coworker a copy of their itinerary.”
The alert also warns Americans to avoid public demonstrations.
“US citizens should avoid large crowds in areas that lack enhanced security measures,” the alert reads. “Use caution in any areas where protests, demonstrations, or other public disturbances are taking place.”
FBI director James Comey has also said that the bureau will be cooperating with Russian law enforcement agencies to enhance security at the games.
Å“Securing any Olympics is an enormous task. I think itâ„¢s particularly challenging in Sochi because of its proximity to areas of unrest and sources of a terrorist threat,” Comey said. Russian authorities are putting Å“enormous resources and effort” into securing the games, he added, as quoted by the Wall Street Journal.
Russian authorities are deploying tens of thousands of police and interior ministry troops at Sochi. The games will start on February 7 and last two weeks.
US President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden will not participate in the opening or closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games, the White House said last month.
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Source: Press TV