AMERICAS

Cuba (Security threat level – 2): On 11 July 2021, thousands of demonstrators marched in multiple cities nationwide, including the capital Havana, San Antonio de los Baños, Camaguey, Palma Soriano, Cárdenas, Sancti Spíritus and Regla, to protest the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing economic crisis. While the demonstrations have remained relatively peaceful, protesters threw stones and overturned an empty police vehicle in Havana. Security personnel deployed pepper spray and tear gas to disperse the protesters and arrested approximately 20 individuals. Approximately 300 pro-government demonstrators gathered as part of a peaceful counterprotest. Two journalists were injured during the clashes. Officials suspended internet and phone services near the protests. Meanwhile, President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the protests on the U.S. government and called on his supporters to confront anti-government protesters.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Somalia (Security threat level – 5): On 10 July 2021, a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) targeted a government convoy at Bandar Junction in the capital Mogadishu. At least eight people were killed in the attack. According to officials, the al-Shabab militant group claimed responsibility for the bombing.

South Africa (Security threat level – 4): On 11 July 2021, President Cyril Ramaphosa extended nationwide coronavirus-related restrictions through at least 25 July due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. Under the measures, all public gatherings, the sale of alcohol and indoor dining in restaurants are banned. Meanwhile, all nonessential travel into and out of Gauteng province, where the capital Pretoria is located, is also banned. Additionally, a nightly curfew is in effect from 2100 to 0400 local time (1900-0200 UTC), and nonessential businesses are required to close by 2000 local time.

South Africa (Security threat level – 4): On 12 July 2021, protests in the city of Johannesburg migrated from the eastern coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal and the outskirts of Johannesburg closer into the city center. Police officers arrested approximately 62 people in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, and there were several reports of small clashes between protesters and police officers. Protesters marched in the streets wielding sticks and pipes, obstructing traffic in some areas. Several businesses in the northern town of Alexandra were looted and set on fire. The Francois Oberholzer freeway — locally known as the M2 motorway — was closed to thruway traffic in Johannesburg near the eastern industrial suburb of Denver due to protesters and reports of live ammunition being fired at motorists. City officials have also announced the immediate suspension of metrobus services in Johannesburg due to security concerns. Supporters of former President Jacob Zuma are protesting his 15-month prison sentence and incarceration.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Slovakia (Security threat level – 2): On 12 July 2021, the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava issued a Demonstration Alert, which reads in part as follows:

“Event: Protest Against the Non-Adoption of the Referendum

“When: Monday, July 12, 2021 from 14:00 – 20:00

“Where: Central Bratislava: Namestie Slobody, Hodzovo Namestie, and SNP Namestie

“Expected number of participants: Approximately 2000-3000”