The Government has called on Jamaican Nationals in Russia to take precautionary measures for their safety and leave where necessary.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry says there is indication that nationals in Russia and surrounding eastern European countries could be impacted by the crisis occurring in Ukraine.

The European Union has announced that it is closing its entire airspace to Russian aircraft and France has also urged its nationals to leave Russia.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith says the Ministry is aware of eight Jamaican students in Russia, but the team has been receiving anecdotal reports of a higher number.

She says although it is the understanding that all of them are well and not experiencing disruptions, the Government strongly urges Jamaicans in Russia or persons who are aware of Jamaicans living in that country to provide the relevant contact information and location to the Consular Affairs Department in Jamaica and leave where possible before tension rises there.

Jamaican nationals in Russia and surrounding countries in eastern Europe are strongly urged to exercise prudence in their activities and to take precautionary measures for their safety.

These include securing safe passage to alternative locations, securing the necessary resources to do so and establishing relationships with family or friends that may be of assistance in ensuring their security.

Mrs Johnson Smith added that it is always helpful to let the Ministry know contact information and location when persons are abroad temporarily, in the event, there is a need for Consular services, especially during emergency situations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade says it will continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine and Russia.