TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned citizens on Tuesday (Aug. 20) against traveling to Ukraine and Russia following Ukraine’s counteroffensive into Russia’s Kursk region on Aug. 6.

Chen Yung-po (陳詠博), director-general of the foreign ministry’s West Asian and African Affairs, urged Taiwanese to avoid non-essential travel to Ukraine or Russia, Liberty Times reported. He also advised those already in the two countries to avoid military conflict zones.

Chen noted that Ukraine’s advancement into Kursk and targeting of critical infrastructure to restrict Russian military movements will trigger retaliatory measures by Moscow.

As the conflict escalates, Chen said Taiwan’s diplomatic missions in the region are maintaining close contact with Taiwanese citizens in affected areas to ensure their safety.

For Taiwanese facing emergencies, Chen advised those in Russia to contact the representative office in Moscow at +7-969-008-6111 or its office in Poland at +48-668-027-574 for those in Ukraine. Additionally, they can call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Emergency Contact Center at +886-800-085-095 for necessary support.