NATO member urges all citizens 'leave Russia NOW' in 'drastic deterioration' warning

Poland has urged its citizens to urgently leave Russia. The country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is advising against all travel to Russia due to the war in Ukraine and the recognition of Poland - which is a member of NATO - by the authorities of the Russian Federation as a hostile state.

Any people already in the country have been urged to leave by any means possible. An appeal published on the Polish government's website says all citizens residing in Russia should "leave its territory by available commercial and private means, unless their personal, family, or professional circumstances require them to remain in the country."

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Currently, the number of Polish diplomatic and consular staff in Russia is reduced - and the government warned that "in the event of a drastic deterioration in the security situation, border closures, or other unforeseen circumstances," evacuation of citizens "may prove significantly more difficult or even impossible."

Direct flights between Poland and Russia are also currently suspended - and travel options between the two countries are limited, the government said. Polish citizens have been warned of the "lack of or extremely limited access to funds held in Poland" as well as the risk of arbitrary detentions and cell phone searches in Russia.

The government said there is also a risk that dual citizenship holders may potentially be prohibited from departing from Russia. Because of these issues, they have been told to always carry their documents - including their passport and migration card - with them. Anyone who is abroad is advised to register in the Odyseusz system to keep up to date with any serious developments.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: "Due to the ongoing reduction in the Polish diplomatic and consular staff in Russia resulting from the decision by local authorities to withdraw permission for the operation of the Consulates General in St. Petersburg and Königsberg, the ability to provide direct consular assistance to Polish citizens is becoming increasingly limited, and it may be necessary to travel to very distant consular offices.

"Please also note that failure to register travel to Russia in the Odyseusz system will significantly hinder consular interventions in crisis situations. 

"In the event of a drastic deterioration in the security situation, border closures, or other unforeseen circumstances, evacuation may prove significantly more difficult or even impossible."

The Polish government also cited the risk of potential military mobilisation, which may also apply to those who have dual citizenship. 

The warning added: "In the Russian Federation, there is a complete ban on photographing objects related to state security, including police stations, airports, military installations, and other government offices. You may be held criminally liable if you violate this ban."