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These international destinations are open to US tourists

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These international destinations are open to US tourists

(CNN) — Once one of the world’s most powerful travel documents, the might of the US passport has shriveled under the cloud of coronavirus, with doors slammed shut across the planet to American travelers.

With US coronavirus cases recently passing the three million mark, many nations now view America with trepidation. No matter how much they want those tourism dollars, they’re unwilling to take the risk of opening their borders.

Even as restrictions ease up in some places, Americans are still on the danger list. Earlier this month, the European Union omitted the United States from its list of 15 countries whose citizens are permitted to visit.

While most US travelers are staying close to home this summer, preferring short-distance car trips to international air travel, some voyagers won’t let a global pandemic curb their travel plans.

And there are still a handful of options.

Most of the Caribbean, for example, is open for US tourists. Other countries — including Mexico, Maldives and Turkey — aren’t exactly welcoming US travelers with open arms (more like a temperature check and a Covid-19 test), but they are allowing visitors to cross their borders for the first time since coronavirus shut down much of the world.

Whether travel to “open” international destinations is responsible or advisable is up to individuals to decide. But it’s worth noting that since the pandemic is ongoing, anything can change at any time.

While there may be bookable international flights to restricted countries, any outbound US passenger should check with the US Embassy and the airline before finalizing travel plans.

Here are the countries where it’s still possible for US passport holders to visit.

Albania

Across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, the former communist country of Albania resumed international commercial flights as of June 15, 2020.

There are no specific details in terms of what US travelers can expect upon arrival to Albania, however, the US Embassy website states that there will be additional medical personnel at all points of entry, as well as screenings and potential quarantine requirements.

“Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice,” it states.

Antigua and Barbuda

Turners Beach on Antigua’s southwest coast.

Shutterstock

As of July 9, US travelers to Antigua and Barbuda “arriving by air must present a negative Covid-19-RT-PCR (real time polymerase chain reaction) test result, taken within seven days of their flight,” according a travel advisory on the country’s tourism website.

Further to that, visitors are subject to monitoring by local health officials for periods of 14 days and another Covid-19 test may be required while visiting, which could mean quarantining while waiting for the test result.

Masks are required in public spaces and any person violating safety measures could be subject to a $5,000 fine and the possibility of six months imprisonment. Anyone going is advised to read the fine print.

Aruba

Visitors to Aruba will be required to undertake a Covid-19 test.

Visitors to Aruba will be required to undertake a Covid-19 test.

Courtesy of Aruba Tourism Authority

US passengers from 24 states, including hotspots like California and Florida, will be required to upload a negative Covid-19 test result via Aruba’s embarkation/disembarkation card process, 72 hours prior to arrival in Aruba.

Travelers arriving from the other 26 states can opt to have a test taken upon arrival, though the test must be prepaid and there is a mandatory quarantine while awaiting test results.

Aruba also requires travelers to be insured, to be protected from medical expenses should they test positive for coronavirus during their stay.

The Aruba tourism site has all the specific health requirements for incoming passengers, which are both considerable and subject to change, so confirm the latest information prior to booking travel.

The Bahamas

There are no quarantine requirements to enter the Bahamas.

There are no quarantine requirements to enter the Bahamas.

Melissa Alcena/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Bahamas reopened to international travel on July 1. Prior to departure, visitors must go online to fill out a “travel health visa application” that includes uploading a negative Covid-19 test result, indicating the test was administered at least 10 days prior to arrival to the islands.
There are no quarantine requirements, but The Bahamas do stipulate that visitors wear a mask and practice social distancing. They should expect temperature screenings upon arrival.

Many accommodations on the islands now carry a “Clean & Pristine” certification, displaying signage to demonstrate that they are in compliance with the islands’ latest health and safety protocols.

Barbados

Barbados opens to tourists on July 12.

Barbados opens to tourists on July 12.

Marnie Hunter/CNN

The island of Barbados welcomed tourists again on July 12. New protocols to safeguard visitors and residents are in effect, and travelers are now required to complete an online immigration card, which can be done 72 hours before departure and submitted 24 hours before traveling.

The form includes health questions, including whether the traveler has a negative Covid-19 test result.

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Travelers can opt to take a Covid-19 PCR test upon arrival, though travelers from the United States who wish for a more seamless travel experience are strongly encouraged to pre-submit their negative test results via the immigration portal and arrive with proof of those results in hand.

Belize

Belize encourages visitors to take a Covid-19 test 72 hours before arrival.

Belize encourages visitors to take a Covid-19 test 72 hours before arrival.

Shutterstock

When Belize reopens its airport on August 15, inbound US passengers will have to have downloaded the new Belize Health App (not currently operational) and supply the required details before boarding a flight to Belize.

The app provides travelers with an identification and QR code that will be used for contact tracing while in country. The app will check in daily to confirm visitors do not have symptoms.

Visitors should book hotels that have received Belize Tourism’s “gold standard certificate of recognition.” Only those hotels will be open as of August 15 and guests will be screened before checking in.

Belize also encourages visitors to take a Covid-19 PCR test at least 72 hours before travel and to present negative results in order to fast-track entry.

Bermuda

Travelers will have to pay fees to cover the cost of testing when heading to Bermuda.

Travelers will have to pay fees to cover the cost of testing when heading to Bermuda.

Alex Rosen / CNN

Welcoming visitors since July 1, Bermuda requires each inbound passenger (regardless of age) to apply for travel authorization, at the cost of $75 per adult and $30 for flight crew and children aged nine and under.

Visitors who do not have a negative Covid-19 PCR test result will not be given authorization to travel to Bermuda.

Upon arrival, passengers must present the pre-departure negative test results, submit to an additional Covid-19 test and quarantine in their accommodation until the results are ready, which takes between six and eight hours.

Additional testing is required after day three, seven and 14, depending on the length of stay, at various testing sites around the island.

The fee for the travel authorization covers the cost of testing.

Cambodia

Visitors to Cambodia will need to pay a deposit of $3,000 to cover the cost of testing and quarantine if necessary.

Visitors to Cambodia will need to pay a deposit of $3,000 to cover the cost of testing and quarantine if necessary.

Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images

If you’re sitting on $3,000 and want to fly to Phnom Penh International Airport to embark on a Cambodian adventure, this is now an option.

In a June 10 statement, the airport’s director, Sao Wathana, announced, “Upon arrival, all foreign passengers are required to deposit $3,000 at the airport to pay for the virus prevention services.”

Visitors will be required to take a Covid-19 test, and if negative, the remaining funds will be returned minus $160 to cover the cost of the test and a fully catered day in a waiting center.

A positive test result carries serious financial and social consequences, involving hospitalization and medical care, and the 14-day quarantine of all fellow inbound flight passengers and additional affiliated expenses.

Croatia

Ignoring the EU ban on American citizens traveling to Europe, Croatia began welcoming US tourists on July 10.

Travelers need to present a negative Covid-19 PCR test,”not older than 48 hours (starting from the time of taking the swab until arrival at the border crossing),” according to an alert on the website of the US Embassy in Zagreb.

Dominican Republic

bestbeachesdr-juanillobeach

Travelers to the Dominican Republic will be temperature-tested.

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

As part of the standard immigration and customs forms, US passengers traveling to the Dominican Republic will have to fill out a Health Affidavit to confirm they have not had any coronavirus symptoms within 72 hours of travel.

However, anyone presenting symptoms or registering a temperature above 100.6 F (38 C) will have to be tested. Passengers who test positive will be isolated and treated.

Visitors also need to provide contact information, but the gist is that when it comes to Covid-19 symptoms and testing, the DR is willing to take your word for it.

Dubai

A picture taken on March 13, 2020 shows people on the beach in the area of the Jumeirah Beach residence in Dubai.

Tourism to Dubai resumed on July 7.

GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images

Dubai resumed tourism on July 7. Visitors to the UAE are required to have medical travel insurance to cover any necessary Covid-19 treatment and present a negative Covid-19 PCR test result within 96 hours of arrival.

Travelers must complete a “health declaration form” before departing to confirm they are not experiencing any coronavirus symptoms.

Passengers can expect temperature checks and mandatory testing if they display symptoms.

Furthermore, “tourists are required to register all their details in the COVID-19 DXB app on arrival,” according to the Visit Dubai website.

Ecuador

Unless you have an extra 14 days to burn, Ecuador is not a great international option. Though US travelers are allowed to go, they are subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine — even with a negative Covid-19 PCR test result.
Quarantine for foreigners is at their expense and only available at specified hotels in Quito, Guayaquil or Manta, and those reservations must be confirmed before arrival.

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Egypt

Egypt is reopening its border with the hope of revamping a tourism industry that’s been severely hurt by the coronavirus lockdown. But what will it take to get Egypt’s tourism industry going again? CNN’s Michael Holmes reports.

Egypt relaxed restrictions on tourism July 1, and there are regular direct flights on EgyptAir from New York City and Washington, DC, to Cairo.

US travelers need to procure a visa either before travel or upon arrival and will be subject to temperature checks and must adhere to social distancing and mask-wearing requirements.

In terms of precisely what awaits US citizens upon arrival, details are hard to come by. Coming prepared with a negative Covid-19 test result as well as proof of insurance is advisable

Egypt announced it was resuming many tourist operations, including the opening of the Giza pyramids on July 7.

French Polynesia

French Polynesia is welcoming tourists from July 15.

French Polynesia is welcoming tourists from July 15.

Suliane Favennec/AFP/Getty Images

Travelers seeking the ultimate in tropical isolation are welcome to the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora on July 15.

French Polynesia requires a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours of departure, to be presented before travelers board their flight.

Passengers must also complete a “sanitary entry form” (one per family), detailing their current state of health and agree to report symptoms and submit to additional testing should it be deemed necessary upon arrival or during the stay.

Jamaica

Golden Eye, Jamaica.

Golden Eye, Jamaica.

Island Outpost

Jamaica reopened to tourists on June 15, but has since updated its requirements for travelers, which include the completion of an online “travel authorization” and the possibility of being tested upon arrival.

As of July 15, due to the increase in coronavirus cases in the United States, passengers arriving from New York, Florida, Arizona and Texas are required to upload negative Covid-19 test results to receive travel authorization. The test date must be within 10 days of arrival.

Each passenger must present the travel authorization along with their passport at the point of departure.

All travelers “from areas where there is high community transmission of the virus” will be tested at the airport upon arrival and required to quarantine in their chosen accommodations until the results are ready, usually within 48 hours.

Only hotels, villas or guesthouses within the “resilient corridor” are accepting guests. According to Visit Jamaica, “the resilient corridor includes the coastline from Negril to Port Antonio. Only businesses within the corridor that have been trained and assessed for adherence to Covid-19 protocols are allowed to open to tourists.”

Kosovo

No testing or quarantine is required for travelers arriving in Kosovo.

According to the US Embassy Kosovo website: “The Pristina International Airport is reportedly open to all travelers; however, some US citizens continue to be denied boarding in the US because they cannot prove they are residents or citizens of Kosovo.

“Despite being open to tourists, the Embassy strongly suggests US visitors cancel or postpone any travel plans to Kosovo this summer.”

The Maldives

The Maldives is wide open to visitors from July 15.

The Maldives is wide open to visitors from July 15.

Shutterstock

One of the world’s most desirable holiday destinations, the Maldives is reopening to all international tourists on July 15. US travelers are not required to be tested prior to departure, but will need to complete a health declaration upon arrival.

All tourists must have booked their accommodations in advance.

According to a press release from Visit Maldives: “Tourist resorts, liveaboard vessels and hotels located on uninhabited islands are open for bookings starting from July 15. Guest houses and hotels located on inhabited islands will open for bookings starting from August 1.”

Mexico

Balandra beach in La Paz, Mexico

Balandra beach in La Paz, Mexico

Alfredo Martinez/Getty Images

Though the land border between the United States and Mexico remains closed, US travelers can fly to Mexico.

No testing requirements are currently in place, although Mexico’s recent reopening has coincided with increased cases of coronavirus.

Travelers can expect temperature checks and other additional screenings upon arrival.

North Macedonia

North Macedonia is open for tourists. There are no test or quarantine requirements, but airports are conducting thermal screening for all passengers.

Rwanda

Visit-Rwanda_-Lake-Kivu-Drone-of-Islands

Rwanda is one of Africa’s most desirable destinations.

Courtesy Visit Rwanda

Rwanda’s national parks make it one of the most desirable destinations in Africa, but currently only if you can afford a private charter to get there.

If you can hold on a few weeks, Rwanda will reopen to international commercial flights on August 1. At that time all international visitors must present a negative Covid-19 PCR test, taken within 72 hours of arriving in Rwanda.

Any tourists who wish to visit attractions like the Volcanoes National Park must take an additional Covid-19 test at the airport, and expect to quarantine in their hotel until the results are ready.

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Serbia

Serbia’s borders are open, but tourists should be aware of a recent spate of protests around new restrictions, including a weekend long curfew. There has also been a recent spike in coronavirus cases in the country.

St. Barts

Hard to find a bad view on the tony island of Saint Barthelemy

Hard to find a bad view on the tony island of Saint Barthelemy

Brekke Fletcher, CNN

The island of St. Barts reopened to international travelers in late June. As of July 10 visitors are required to show a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours of arrival.

Those staying longer than a week will need to pay about $150 for an additional test on their eighth day.

Currently, travelers can get to St. Barts via Antigua and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Both airports require the same documentation: a negative Covid-19 PCR test result, taken within 72 hours of arrival.

St. Maarten Princess Juliana Airport remains closed to commercial flights from the US.

St. Lucia

Pigeon Beach in Saint Lucia as seen from Fort Rodney

Pigeon Beach in St. Lucia.

DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images

Those traveling to St. Lucia from the United States are required to provide a negative result from a Covid-19 PCR test, taken within seven days of travel. Visitors must also complete a Pre-Arrival Registration form — and travel with a printed, completed form.

Visitors must have confirmed reservations at a Covid-certified property (currently there are seven) for the duration of their trip. And tourists must stay where they have registered, unless the hotel has coordinated an approved excursion.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Anchoring sail boats in the shallow waters of Union Island, St.Vincent and Grenadines, West Indies.

Anchoring sail boats in the shallow waters of Union Island, St.Vincent and Grenadines, West Indies.

Shutterstock

All travelers to St. Vincent and the Grenadines must take a Covid-19 PCR test upon arrival, unless they arrive with a negative Covid-19 test result (antibody test within five days, PCR test within two days), in which case they will not be required to quarantine.

Visitors must be granted “VINCYCOVID App*Approval” and complete the “VINCYCOVID questionnaire.”

In addition, all passengers will be screened for symptoms upon arrival, including temperature checks.

Tanzania

Tanzania is officially open to tourists.

Tanzania is officially open to tourists.

TONY KARUMBA/AFP/AFP/Getty Images

Another instance where travel is not forbidden, Tanzania is officially open to tourists. While there are no testing or quarantine requirements in place, travelers will be subject to extensive screenings and in some cases, will be required to take a Covid-19 test.

Incoming passengers are required to fill out a “health surveillance form” upon arrival.

Turkey

Most of Turkey's borders hae been open since June 12.

Most of Turkey’s borders hae been open since June 12.

Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Europe/Getty Images

The majority of Turkey’s borders have been open since June 12. There are currently no restrictions for US citizens traveling to Turkey, although passengers must complete an information form and prepare to be checked for coronavirus symptoms upon arrival.

Turks and Caicos

Grace Bay near the town of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos boasts world class beaches and water sports.

Grace Bay near the town of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos boasts world class beaches and water sports.

Shutterstock

The most recent information related to US travelers who wish to visit Turks and Caicos is as follows:

As of July 22, visitors must provide a negative Covid-19 test result and the test must have been taken within five days of arrival. Children 10 and under are not bound to this requirement.

Travelers must also complete an online health screening questionnaire and carry travel medical insurance to cover any Covid-19-related costs (from quarantine to hospital care).

Ukraine

Lviv architecture

Travelers to Ukraine need to download an app to meet requirements.

Pixabay

The US is considered a “red zone” country in Ukraine, meaning it has more than 40 active coronavirus cases per 100,000 people. To gain entry to Ukraine, passengers should download the “Dii Vdoma” app and choose one of three options.

They can either take a Covid-19 PCR test within 24 hours of crossing the border, enter an isolation unit, or quarantine at their destination, which they can register via the app.

Travel health insurance is also a requirement, to cover any costs related the treatment of Covid-19.

United Kingdom

US travelers have always been allowed to travel to the United Kingdom — they just have to submit to a mandatory, 14-day quarantine.

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All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

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Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.  

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

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How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

  1. Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
  2. Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
  3. Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
  4. Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

  1. Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
  2. Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
  3. Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.
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Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

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Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

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When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

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Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

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Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

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Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

  1. Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
  2. Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

  1. Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
  2. Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
  3. Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
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Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

  1. Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
  2. Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

  1. Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
  2. Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

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