The Government of Jamaica (GOJ) is encouraging Jamaican nationals in Russia to take precautionary measures for their safety and leave where necessary. There is indication that nationals in Russia and surrounding Eastern European countries could be impacted by the crisis occurring in the Ukraine.
According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, “We are aware of eight (8) Jamaican students, but our team has been receiving anecdotal reports of a higher number who are in Russia. Although we understand all of them are well and not experiencing disruptions, we take this opportunity to strongly urge Jamaicans in Russia, or persons who are aware of Jamaicans living in Russia, to provide the relevant contact information and location to the Consular Affairs Department here in Jamaica, and leave where possible before tension rises in that country.”
The Minister shared, “We take this opportunity to strongly urge nationals in these and surrounding countries in Eastern Europe to exercise prudence in their activities, and to take precautionary measures for their safety. These include, and are not limited to, securing safe passage to alternative locations, securing the necessary resources to do so and establishing relationships with family or friends that may be of assistance, as necessary, in ensuring their security.”
Johnson Smith added, “It is always helpful to let us know of your contact information and location when you are temporarily abroad, in the event there is need for consular services, especially during emergency situations. In this regard you should consider providing your contact details to the Consular Affairs Department at: consular@mfaft.gov.jm or consularassistant@mfaft.gov.jm.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and its Embassy in Berlin continues to monitor the situation in Ukraine and Russia.
