The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that two demonstrations are planned in Minsk on May 1, International Labor Day. Minsk authorities have approved a request for demonstrators to gather at Bangalore Square from 1700 to 1930. There are reports that demonstrators may also gather at October Square at 1400. This gathering has not been approved by Minsk authorities.
We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are therefore reminded to avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. The Embassy also reminds U.S. citizens to remain vigilant, maintain an appropriate level of personal security in all circumstances, and monitor local news sources for updates.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Belarus Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Minsk, Belarus, located at 46 Starovilenskaya Street at: +375 17 210-12-83 / 217-7347 / 217-7348, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +375 29 676-0134.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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