Scott and I are registered with the U.S. State Department as Americans living abroad so we get periodic emails when there's something large scale happening in or around our part of the world that might put U.S. Citizens at risk. Something like, oh, you know, Russia sending troops to Crimea and the resulting U.S. sanctions imposed against Russian officials.
Below is a copy of the email we just received today.
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UNITED STATES EMBASSY MOSCOW, RUSSIA
Security Message to U.S. Citizens: Large Rally/Concert in Red Square and Possible Other Locations in Russia
March 18, 2014
U.S. Embassy Moscow notifies U.S. citizens and family members that Russian government authorities will permit a large-scale “mass rally-concert” entitled “We Are Together” to take place in Red Square at 18:00 today, March 18. The event will express political support for residents of Crimea and with President Putin’s policies there. Tens of thousands are expected to participate. It is possible that similar rallies will take place in other Russian cities, including St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg. Such large gatherings may cause significant traffic and mass-transit disruptions.
A larger-than-usual police presence will likely be evident in and around downtown Moscow to monitor the events. U.S. citizens should carry their identification and show it if requested to do so by legitimate authorities.
Please note the following guidance from the U.S. Department of State’s Country Specific Information for the Russian Federation: “U.S. citizens should avoid all public demonstrations, whether properly authorized by local officials or not, and avoid any large crowds and public gatherings that lack enhanced security measures.”
U.S. citizens are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
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So I'm in Moscow (of course) and Scott's in Yekaterinburg for work today and tomorrow. We live within walking distance of Red Square. How nice.
Actually I'm really not afraid for either of us per se (and I don't plan on going out tonight anyway), but it's certainly not a very safe feeling that America's State Department is worried about us little people.
