Govt urges Jamaicans to take preventive measures for safety or leave Russia

While appealing to their nationals to be safe, Minister Smith emphasised that they have taken their opportunity to strongly urge residents in Russia and surrounding countries in Eastern Europe to exercise prudence in their activities and take preventive measures for their safety.

Govt urges Jamaicans to take preventive measures for safety or leave Russia
Govt urges Jamaicans to take preventive measures for safety or leave Russia

The Government of Jamaica has urged their nationals in Russia to take preventive measures for their safety and leave the country whenever necessary. On February 27, 2022, the press release was issued by the government of Jamaica which stated that there is an indication that nationals in Russia and surrounding Eastern European countries could be impacted by the crisis occurring in Ukraine.

According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, “We are aware of eight 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 exercising disruptions, we take this opportunity to urge Jamaicans in Russia strongly, or persons who are aware of the Consular Affairs Department here in Jamaica, and leave where possible before tension rises in that country”.

While appealing to their nationals to be safe, Minister Smith emphasised that they have taken their opportunity to strongly urge residents in Russia and surrounding countries in Eastern Europe to exercise prudence in their activities and take preventive measures for their safety.

He further explained that this precautionary measure includes 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.

Outlining the sources of the information with which help Jamaica people could contact the authorities of the country, Johnson Smith added, “It is always helpful to let us know of your contact pieces of information and location when you are temporarily abroad; in the event, there is a need for counsellor providing your contact details to the Consular Affairs Department at consular@mfaft.gov.in”. 

Foreign Minister reiterated that the ministry of foreign affairs and foreign Trade ad its Embassy in Berlin continued to monitor the situation in Ukraine and Russia.