Colombia (Security threat level – 4): On 6 December 2021, President Iván Duque announced new entry requirements to curb the spread of COVID-19. As of 14 December, foreign nationals who are 18 years of age and older must present proof of vaccination against COVID-19 completed at least 14 days before entry into Colombia. Unvaccinated Colombian nationals and residents will be permitted to present proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival instead of proof of vaccination.
Russia (Security threat level – 3): On the afternoon of 7 December 2021, a gunman opened fire inside a public services office in the southeastern part of the capital Moscow. Local reports indicate that the individual began firing following a verbal altercation with a security guard, who asked the man to wear a face mask — a coronavirus-related requirement in such establishments. Two people were killed and three others were wounded in the shooting. Authorities detained the gunman and took him to a police station. Russia’s Investigative Committee has launched a criminal probe into the shooting.
United Kingdom (Security threat level – 3): As of 0400 local time/UTC on 7 December 2021, inbound travelers to the U.K. are required to show a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or LFD) taken no more than 48 hours before travel. The new pre-departure testing requirement — imposed to slow the spread of the omicron variant of COVID-19 — applies to anyone 12 years of age and older, including those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Additionally, fully vaccinated travelers remain subject to the following requirements: must complete a passenger locator form within 48 hours preceding arrival, take a PCR test on or before the second day after arrival and self-isolate until receiving a negative result. Further details as outlined by the U.K. government can be read here.
Iraq (Security threat level – 5): On the morning of 7 December 2021, a bomb attached to a motorcycle exploded in the vicinity of the Republican Hospital in the southern Iraqi city of Basra. The explosion subsequently set ablaze two nearby cars. At least four people were killed and four others suffered injuries in the event. No group has claimed responsibility for the bombing; however, the Islamic State group routinely carries out similar attacks across the country.
Analyst Comment: Iraq is experiencing a surge in Islamic State group’s activity. Prior to this bombing, the surge had primarily been occurring in the northern part of the country. Travelers with interests in Iraq should keep informed of local developments in view of possible further attacks in the south.
Iceland (Security threat level – 1) : On 6 December 2021, the U.K. Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued updated travel advice for Iceland, which reads in part as follows: “An ORANGE warning has been issued for Grímsvötn volcano in South East Iceland. The likelihood of an eruption is increased, you should continue to monitor alerts from the Icelandic Met Office. ”
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