Security
Thinking of leaving the United States after the election? These are the places you want to avoid
Some people were so disappointed, scared even, of a second Donald Trump presidency that they’re considering moving country.
If you’re contemplating relocating abroad after the recent presidential election, one that will see Donald Trump – and his curious administration picks – take full control in January, it’s essential to be aware of certain destinations that the United States Department of State advises against due to significant safety concerns.
These advisories are categorized into four levels, with Level 4 being the most severe, indicating “Do Not Travel.” Here’s a concise overview of countries currently under Level 4 advisories:
Afghanistan
Afghanistan remains highly unstable, with ongoing armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest posing severe risks to travelers. The US government has limited ability to provide assistance to citizens in the region.
Belarus
Political tensions and arbitrary enforcement of laws have led to a Level 4 advisory for Belarus. The US government advises against travel due to the risk of detention and limited consular support.
Burma (Myanmar)
Following a military coup, Burma has experienced widespread protests and violent crackdowns. The volatile situation, including armed conflict in various regions, makes it a high-risk destination.
Haiti
Haiti faces significant challenges, including kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare infrastructure. The security environment is unpredictable, and the US Embassy has restricted personnel movement.
Iran
Due to the risk of arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens, particularly dual nationals, Iran is under a Level 4 advisory. The US government has limited ability to assist citizens in Iran.
Iraq
Terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, and civil unrest are prevalent in Iraq. The security situation remains dangerous, and the US Embassy’s ability to provide assistance is extremely limited.
Lebanon
Lebanon is experiencing civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and armed conflict. The US government has limited capacity to provide support, and the security environment can deteriorate rapidly.
Libya
Armed conflict, crime, terrorism, and civil unrest are widespread in Libya. The US Embassy suspended operations in 2014, leaving no consular services available.
Mali
Mali faces terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict, particularly in the northern and central regions. The US government’s ability to provide emergency services is limited.
North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea)
Travel to North Korea is highly restricted due to the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention. The US government does not have diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea.
Russia
Due to the unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces, the potential for harassment and the singling out of US citizens for detention by Russian government security officials, and the arbitrary enforcement of local law, the US government has limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Russia.
Somalia
Somalia experiences crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy. The US government has limited ability to provide emergency services to US citizens in Somalia.
South Sudan
South Sudan faces crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The US government’s ability to provide emergency services is limited, and the security environment is unpredictable.
Sudan
Due to armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping, Sudan is under a Level 4 advisory. The US Embassy has limited ability to provide assistance.
Syria
Syria remains extremely dangerous due to terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The US Embassy suspended operations in 2012, and the US government cannot provide emergency services.
Ukraine
Due to Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine is experiencing armed conflict, civil unrest, and crime. The US government has limited ability to provide assistance. Trump, of course, has promised to end the war quickly upon taking office, so this may change in 2025.
Venezuela
Venezuela faces crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and arbitrary arrest and detention of US citizens. The US Embassy suspended operations in 2019, and the US government cannot provide emergency services.
Yemen
Yemen is experiencing terrorism, civil unrest, health risks, kidnapping, armed conflict, and landmines. The US Embassy suspended operations in 2015, and the US government cannot provide emergency services.
While these Level 4 advisories highlight countries with the most severe risks, it’s also prudent to consider destinations under Level 3 advisories, which suggest “Reconsider Travel.” These countries may have significant safety and security concerns that warrant careful consideration before planning a move.
Before making any decisions about jumping the Stars and Stripes ship under a Trump captaincy, be sure consult the latest travel advisories from the US Department of State to ensure you’re fully informed about potential risks. Relocating is a significant step, and understanding the safety landscape of your prospective new home is crucial.
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