Russia Warns Travelers to Avoid Mali Amid Security Crisis

The Russian Foreign Ministry has issued a strong advisory urging citizens to steer clear of Mali, citing escalating security concerns in the West African nation. In a statement released Friday, the ministry, referencing its embassy in Bamako, recommended that Russians “refrain from traveling to this country” and called on those already there to “take all necessary measures to ensure their personal safety.” The warning comes after Mali’s army reported terrorist attacks on military installations, including sites in the capital. Gunfire was heard near Bamako’s airport, prompting a temporary halt to flights, according to the AFP news agency. The Malian military later said it had regained control of the situation. Moscow expressed “deep concern” over the unfolding events, though it did not specify whether any Russian nationals had been directly affected. The advisory is the latest in a series of travel warnings from Russia as instability spreads across parts of the Sahel region. For travelers with plans in the area, the message is clear: stay away, and if you’re there, stay alert.