The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is advising Jamaican nationals to seriously consider making arrangements to leave Russia as soon as they are able to, in view of the growing impact of sanctions on that country in response to its invasion of Ukraine.
On 27th February, the Ministry encouraged Jamaican nationals in Russia to take precautionary measures for their safety and leave where necessary. There are now real indications that nationals in Russia and surrounding Eastern European countries will be severely impacted as a consequence of the crisis in Ukraine.
Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, said that, “Since we issued that first press release concerning Jamaicans in Russia, persons have contacted our Consular Affairs Department and we now have indications of some eighteen (18) students to date at universities in Russia.”
The Minister shared, “We are aware that some students are already making plans to leave, and we encourage others to do the same. The fact is that with the announcement by several countries of the imposition of restrictions on flights entering their countries from Russia, alternative routes out of that country will have to be explored. Students and their families should try to be proactive as this may become more difficult as more sanctions are applied, and as they tighten.”
The Minister is also taking the opportunity to remind nationals in surrounding countries in Eastern Europe to explore opportunities for safe passage to alternative locations, to establish relationships with family or friends that may be of assistance, as necessary, including with securing resources and ensuring their safety.
Johnson Smith added, “Our Honorary Consul in Moscow and our Consular Affairs Department remain available to engage with Jamaican nationals and they may be contacted at mailto:jamaicaconsulrussia@yahoo.com and consular@mfaft.gov.jm or consularassistant@mfaft.gov.jm, respectively.”
