US warns of terror attacks during '18 FIFA World Cup

Russian officials say they are prepared, and have stationed thousands of security personnel in the cities that are hosting the game. Pics/AFP

The US government has warned its citizens of potential terror attacks during the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia, in a travel advisory asking people to reconsider visiting the country.

"Large-scale international events such as the World Cup present an attractive target for terrorists," the State Department stated in the advisory. "Although security for the World Cup will be extensive, terrorists may seek to attack event locations such as stadiums and Fan Fest viewing areas, tourist sites, transportation hubs and other public venues," it added.

The World Cup aside, "terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Russia". "Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets or shopping malls, and the local government facilities," the statement added.

For all the cited reasons, the US maintained the alert level for Russia at 3, on a scale of 4, which also applies to countries such as Cuba, Pakistan, Turkey, Honduras and Nicaragua, for which Washington recommends its citizens to "reconsider" their plans for travel. Besides potential attacks, the US observed that in Russia "US citizens are often victims of harassment, mistreatment and extortion by law-enforcement and other officials".