US Expands ‘Do Not Travel’ List to 21 Countries

The U.S. Department of State has expanded its 'Do Not Travel' advisory to include 21 countries, with North Korea and Burkina Faso being the most recent additions due to heightened risks such as terrorism, crime, kidnapping, and the threat of wrongful detention. The Level 4 advisory, the highest issued by the State Department, signals severe safety concerns like armed conflict or government instability, and is regularly updated based on global events and intelligence. In North Korea, Americans face serious threats of arbitrary arrest and long-term detention, with limited consular support due to the absence of diplomatic relations; Sweden acts as a protecting power but with restricted access. Burkina Faso is flagged for ongoing terrorist activity and violence, prompting recommendations for strong personal safety measures and evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance. The advisories serve to keep American travelers informed of potential dangers and may impact travel logistics, such as available flights and visa requirements. The list reflects an increasingly volatile international landscape and aims to prioritize the safety of U.S. citizens abroad.