Los 40 USA
Sign in to commentAPP
spainSPAINchileCHILEcolombiaCOLOMBIAusaUSAmexicoMEXICOlatin usaLATIN USAamericaAMERICA

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.

Image of plane over the USA
AS USA

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.

Armed gang members walk through the streets near the presidential palace, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti April 23, 2024.
Full screen
Armed gang members walk through the streets near the presidential palace, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti April 23, 2024.Ralph Tedy ErolREUTERS

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.

Trípoli, capital of Libya.
Full screen
Trípoli, capital of Libya.Associated Press/LaPresseAPN

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.

A UN peacekeeper stands guard in Jebel, near South Sudan's capital.
Full screen
A UN peacekeeper stands guard in Jebel, near South Sudan's capital.

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.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and then US President Donald Trump attend a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan June 28, 2019.
Full screen
Russia's President Vladimir Putin and then US President Donald Trump attend a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan June 28, 2019.SPUTNIKREUTERS

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.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

Rules