US government warns of terror attacks during FIFA WC in Russia

<strong>While the FIFA World Cup 2018 is underway in Russia, the US government has warned its citizens of a potential terror attack in a travel advisory asking the people to reconsider visiting the country.</strong> The advisory released by the US government said,"Large-scale international events such as the World Cup present an attractive target for terrorists. 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." 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, the "US citizens are often victims of harassment, mistreatment and extortion by law-enforcement and other officials". The FIFA World Cup 2018 started on June 14 in Russia where the hosts played the first game against Saudi Arabia. The tournament will conclude on July 15.

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