U.S. Embassy Skopje informs U.S. citizens that a large police action started early this morning in Kumanovo, Macedonia resulting in several injuries. Unrelated nightly protests began Tuesdayin downtown Skopje and have continued through Friday night. While none of these developments have targeted Americans, U.S. citizens in Macedonia should stay aware of their surroundings and avoid police operations and demonstrations in order to keep from being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
U.S. citizens should avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. U.S. citizens are advised to respect local laws, pay close attention to developments and potential traffic disruptions through local media, and plan alternate routes should you find your original plans affected. Further demonstrations and police actions may form with little or no notice.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Macedonia enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Macedonia. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Skopje, Macedonia is located at Samoilova 21, 1000 Skopje and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. tel: (02) 310-2000. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, the emergency number for the U.S. Embassy is (389) 2-310-2000.
