As of late February 2026, Russia is technically open to international tourists, but travel is highly restricted and discouraged for many. While citizens of "friendly" nations (such as India, China, and various Middle Eastern countries) can obtain e-visas and fly in via hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or Doha, most Western governments—including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia—maintain a "Do Not Travel" advisory. This is due to the high-intensity security risks related to the conflict in Ukraine, the risk of arbitrary detention, and the fact that Western credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) do not work in Russia due to sanctions, requiring travelers to carry large amounts of cash. Furthermore, there is a premier lack of consular support for Westerners. While the "historic allure" of Moscow and St. Petersburg remains, the 2026 reality is a high-risk environment with limited flight options and significant legal "landmines," making it a destination that is currently only accessible to those willing to navigate a complex and volatile geopolitical landscape.