Foreign Office Issues Travel Warning for Three European Nations
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an official travel warning for British tourists planning visits to three European countries: Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. This advisory comes in response to increased military activity and drone incursions linked to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Drone Incursions Across Baltic Airspace
The FCDO has released new information detailing drone activity entering the airspace of all three Baltic nations. According to the warning, some Ukrainian drones targeting Russian positions have crossed into Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian airspace. The Foreign Office specifically stated: "Some Ukrainian drones aimed at Russia have crossed into Estonian airspace. Follow official guidance as necessary." Similar warnings were issued for Latvian and Lithuanian airspace.
The advisory emphasizes that the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues with frequent missile and drone attacks across Ukrainian territory, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage to infrastructure including residential areas, energy facilities, rail networks, and industrial sites.
Escalating Military Activity
Russian military activity against Ukraine has intensified over the past year, with drone and missile strikes increasing substantially in 2025 compared to 2024 levels. Between September and December 2025, Russia launched approximately 5,200 missiles and drones per month on average, up from 3,900 in February 2025 and just 1,000 in August 2024.
Civilian casualties in Ukraine have risen significantly, with a 31% increase reported from January to September 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, there has been a marked rise in civilian injuries occurring away from front line areas.
Travel Advice and Insurance Implications
The FCDO advises against all travel to parts of Ukraine and advises against all but essential travel to other Ukrainian regions. The warning specifically notes that travel insurance could be invalidated if travelers disregard FCDO advice.
For British nationals in or traveling to the Baltic region, the Foreign Office recommends:
- Exercising heightened awareness at all times
- Being prepared to immediately shelter if air alerts are announced
- Maintaining extra vigilance while traveling in urban centers
- Following official guidance from local authorities
This travel warning represents a significant development for UK tourists considering visits to these popular European destinations, with the FCDO urging caution due to the unpredictable nature of cross-border military activity in the region.
