U.S. warns against travel to Zimbabwe
From Elise Labott
CNN
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WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The State Department on Thursday reiterated its warning to U.S. citizens against traveling to Zimbabwe and urged those still there to leave.
An updated travel warning noted "Zimbabwe is in the midst of political, economic and humanitarian crises with serious implications for the security situation in the country. All U.S. citizens in Zimbabwe are urged to take those measures they deem appropriate to ensure their well-being, including consideration of departure from the country."
The advisory cites an economy "in precipitous decline" and a "serious increase in crime," coupled with nationwide fuel shortages that have hindered in-country travel.
It also warns that half the population of Zimbabwe faces famine.
"The humanitarian crisis is expected to worsen in coming months and may lead to unrest and possible large-scale migration of Zimbabweans to urban or border areas, with further disruption and an increase in crime and instability," the warning said.
The State Department also warned Americans in Zimbabwe to avoid commercial farms, "especially those occupied by settlers or so-called 'war veterans,' who are typically young government supporters acting with impunity outside the law."
In November 2002, U.S. Embassy staff members were detained and one was beaten by war veterans on a farm near Harare, the advisory said.
The United States has consistently condemned Zimbabwe's President, Robert Mugabe, for human rights violations, including cracking down on his opposition and the media.
Mugabe has led Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, but has drawn sharp criticism over many of his policies.
On Thursday, Mugabe agreed to hold formal talks with his political opponents. (Full story)
