The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of two demonstrations planned in Minsk this evening. A demonstration has been called against the upcoming joint Belarusian and Russian Zapad military exercises at Oktyabrskaya Square today, September 8 at 18:00. This gathering has not been approved by Minsk authorities. There will be another demonstration, also protesting the Zapad exercises, at Kyiv Park from 1800 to 1930. Minsk authorities have approved this demonstration.
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 St 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.
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