Are you living in Russia by any chance? What is the situation there like for westerners at the moment if so (e.g. in St Petersburg)? My brother still wants to go as he has been planning it for ages (he is learning Russian). I am quite concerned for his safety for obvious reasons but he is too stubborn to listen.

I’m living in Russia. If no one from outside will use nukes, then he will be fine. Everything operates normal, people doing everyday work and relax at the evening. You won’t see much difference from any EU capital in Moscow and St. Petersburg.