The U.S. State Department has asked Americans residing in Russia to leave the country as soon as possible, issuing a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” alert, warning citizens against traveling to Russia. American citizens in Russia are at threat of potential harassment by Russian government security officials, according to a travel advisory issued on March 5 by the State Department. The U.S. Embassy in Russia has “limited ability” to assist citizens in the country. The department also cited COVID-19 and related entry restrictions, limited flights into and out of the country, terrorism, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws to call on U.S. citizens to “immediately” exit Russia. Traveling to regions like Chechnya, Mount Elbrus, and North Caucasus should be avoided due to the risk of civil unrest, kidnapping, and terrorism. In Crimea, there is a risk of being abused by occupying Russian authorities, the department said, leading it to …