travel radiographer salary

Travel radiology tech career overview

Radiology tech travel jobs with nomad health.

From invasive cancer in the brain to a simple broken finger, travel radiology technologists help diagnose and visualize a range of maladies using modalities such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluoroscopy. Without their expertise in capturing the most accurate images in a timely manner, doctors and nurses would be flying blind. 

At Nomad, we understand the importance of radiology techs and want them to have access to competitive pay and career support throughout their travel journey. Amongst our allied health travel jobs, travel radiology tech jobs are the most popular, with hundreds of unique options nationwide. Additionally, we provide a full breadth of insurance benefits that include medical, dental, vision, and malpractice insurance. As a radiology tech, we know obtaining different state licenses and certifications can be expensive, so we offer reimbursements in certification, licensure, scrubs, and up to $1,000 of one-way travel to your assignment.

Working as a traveling rad tech can be overwhelming at times, so we provide resources to help you succeed. As a radiology tech with Nomad, you have a dedicated team of Navigators to answer any questions in the application process and beyond. While you’re on assignment, our in-house group of expert travel clinicians, the Clinical Excellence team, is also available to help communicate your needs to facilities.

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Travel radiology tech salary information.

At Nomad, the average weekly salary of a travel radiology tech is $2,710, with the median hourly pay at $70 . The highest-paid traveling radiology techs earn $4,720 a week and up to $88 per hour. This means that for a standard 13-week assignment, the gross salary for a travel radiology tech could be up to $61,360.*

Travel radiology tech salaries vary depending on a number of factors such as obtaining specialty certifications, gaining experience in different modalities, choosing a high-paying location, and selecting shifts that have an added differential. With Nomad’s mobile app, finding the highest-paying jobs with ideal options for location, shift, and length of contract is easier than ever. 

*Subject to change. This is based on the average weekly salary of Nomad radiology techs from March 29, 2023

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Traveling radiology technologist job description.

According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT), radiology technologists are medical professionals that perform “diagnostic imaging examinations and administer radiation therapy treatments.” Travel radiology techs work in a wide variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, and physician’s offices, although most are based in hospitals. They also function in multiple clinical specialties such as cardiovascular, orthopedics, prenatal, and pediatric. Most travel radiology technologists are certified to use X-ray equipment to capture images of a patient’s soft tissue, internal organs, and bones. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the core features of a travel radiology technologist's job are utilizing and maintaining different imaging equipment, operating the computer system to take images, following precise orders from providers on which areas of the body to image, and keeping detailed patient records. Important skills that rad techs develop are preparing patients for procedures through accurate positioning of the patient and the machine, and shielding unnecessarily exposed body parts from radiation. Travel radiology techs also regularly take a patient’s medical history and collaborate with physicians to determine if more images are needed.

Soft skills

Traveling radiology techs frequently interact with patients, nurses, doctors, and other personnel like transporters. Depending on the facility, some travel radiology technologists may be the only ones staffing the department, so having a flexible mindset and knowing how to ask for help from unfamiliar faces is vital. Overall, having a friendly demeanor and a collaborative approach to interacting with others will help travel rad techs be successful in their assignments.

Depending on the facility and radiology modality, travel rad techs may work night or day shifts as most hospitals have 24-hour CT scanners and X-ray capabilities. Other modalities like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may have daytime coverage but will require overnight on-call shifts.

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Types of rad tech travel jobs.

There are many different types of travel radiology technologist jobs. The ability to work in these specialties is often determined by recent experience in the specialty, along with appropriate certification from an organization like the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Take a look at some of the more popular travel radiology tech specialties.

Computed tomography (CT) radiology technologist

A travel radiology tech specializing in computed tomography (CT) will likely require certification in the ARRT (R) and the ARRT (CT). According to the ARRT, some of the core duties of CT radiology tech travel jobs include positioning the patient properly for a scan, taking a full medical history, and ensuring the patient has adequate IV access if necessary. Techs also administer IV contrast and document any adverse actions, select the correct protocols and perform scans, and notify the right medical staff of any critical findings. Some CT rad techs work in the emergency room and can scan stroke and trauma patients emergently at all hours. Most facilities require techs to have at least 12 months of recent CT radiology experience and their Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radiology technologist

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, MRI lab techs specialize in using magnetic resonance imaging scanners. The scanners use magnetic fields and contrast agents to produce images that a physician can use to diagnose medical issues. Some tasks that MRI radiology tech travel jobs require you to perform include checking the patients for the presence of contraindicated metal implants, administering intravenous contrast like gadolinium, selecting appropriate imaging protocols, and communicating critical findings to physicians and nurses. For travel MRI radiology techs, most facilities will require at least 12 to 24 months of recent MRI experience and the ARRT (MR), along with BLS.

Interventional radiology (IR) technologist 

Travel interventional radiology technologists work primarily in interventional radiology units where minimally invasive procedures are performed with the assistance of computed tomography imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, or x-ray fluoroscopy. Some core duties of a IR tech travel jobs include assisting the IR physician in preparing access sites on the patient, correctly positioning the patient, selecting the appropriate imaging protocols and contrast agents, and scrubbing in to assist with the procedure. IR radiology technologists will at minimum, need the ARRT (R) certification, BLS, and at least 12 to 24 months of recent IR tech experience Some facilities may require the ARRT (VI) certification.

Cath lab radiology technologist

A travel cath lab tech is a radiology technologist with experience in the cardiac catheterization lab. They will manage the procedural imaging equipment, help position the patient properly, prepare medications according to physician instructions, scrub in to assist during procedures like coronary angioplasties and femoral angiography, and process images post-procedure. Some facilities may require travel cath lab radiology techs to have the ARRT (R) and the ARRT (CI) certifications. Less commonly, some require the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) from  Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) . Most require at least 12 to 24 months of recent cath lab experience and BLS.

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How to become a traveling radiology tech, 1. get a degree or complete an accredited program.

To become a traveling radiology technologist, the first step is to graduate from an accredited radiologic technologist program; either an associate's or bachelor's degree is acceptable. Technically, certification after graduation is not nationally mandated but is recommended as many healthcare facilities prefer their techs to be certified.

2. Get certified

The gold standard organization for certification is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Depending on the course of study in your degree program, you can qualify to test for a number of radiology certifications. The ARRT offers six different specialties that are considered primary pathways. The most common primary specialty is the ARRT (R).

• ARRT (MR)- Magnetic Resonance Imaging 
• ARRT (N)- Nuclear Medicine
• ARRT (T)- Radiation Therapy
• ARRT (R)- Radiographer 
• ARRT (S)- Sonography
• ARRT (VS)-Vascular Sonography

Aside from facility preference, individual states have licensing requirements that vary greatly; if you intend to work in a specific state, be sure to double check if additional testing and licensing are required. The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) provides an ongoing  list of state requirements.

3. Expand your credentials

Travel radiology technologists can test for postprimary credentials with ARRT in order to learn new skills and expand their knowledge in other modalities. The post-primary specialties, with the exception of the ARRT(MR) and ARRT(VS), must be paired with an initial primary pathway certification.

• ARRT (BD)-Bone Densitometry
• ARRT (BS)-Breast Sonography
• ARRT (CI)- Cardiac Interventional Radiography
• ARRT (CT)-Computed Tomography
• ARRT (MR)-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• ARRT (M)-Mammography
• ARRT (VI) -Vascular Interventional Radiography
• ARRT (VS)- Vascular Sonography

According to the AART, the purpose of certification is to provide greater credibility to the skills of a radiology technologist; it can also signal to future employers, state licensing agencies, and federal regulators that there is a commitment to providing high-quality care.

4. Get hands-on experience

After graduating from a degree program, obtaining proper licensure, and qualifying for any required state licenses, take a minimum of 12 months to two years to gain hands-on experience in whatever radiology specialty you’re licensed to practice under. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident with managing different modalities and imaging protocols before becoming a travel radiology technologist. 

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Frequently asked questions about travel radiology tech careers, how much do traveling radiology techs make, where do traveling radiology techs make the most money, are travel radiology techs in high demand, browse interventional radiology tech travel jobs, travel radiology tech healthcare resources.

• American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://www.arrt.org/
• American Society of Radiologic Technologists. (n.d.). Individual State Licensure. Retrieved from https://www.asrt.org/main/standards-and-regulations/legislation-regulations-and-advocacy/individual-state-licensure
• American Society of Radiologic Technologists. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://www.asrt.org/
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, September 8). Radiologic and MRI Technologists. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm
• Cardiovascular Credentialing International. (n.d.). Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS). Retrieved from https://cci-online.org/credentials/registered-cardiovascular-invasive-specialist/

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Maximizing Your Earnings: A Comprehensive Guide to Travel Radiology Tech Salary

Have you ever dreamt of a rewarding career that combines patient treatment and the excitement of exploring new places with a high-earning potential? Look no further than a career as a travel radiology tech! This dynamic profession offers a unique blend of clinical expertise, travel opportunities, and financial rewards that can truly transform your life. But what exactly can you earn, and how can you maximize your travel radiology tech salary in this field?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about travel radiology tech salaries, from the factors that influence pay to the top-earning potential and strategies to boost your income. With this knowledge, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an exciting and lucrative journey as a travel radiology tech.

Key Takeaways

• Travel radiology techs can earn an average of $117,065 per year or $56.28 per hour depending on factors such as location and experience.
• Salary variations are influenced by geographic location, tenure in the field, specialization & certification, facility type and negotiation skills.
• Comprehensive benefits beyond salary include housing stipends/accommodation options, transportation allowance & 401k plans for retirement savings.

Unlocking the Potential: What You Can Earn as a Travel Radiology Tech

Travel radiology techs, also known as ray techs, are professionals with substantial compensation who significantly contribute to the medical field. On average, they earn an impressive $117,065 per year or $56.28 per hour. As a travel radiology or x ray tech either, your job entails capturing interior images of patients’ bodies using advanced equipment and radiologic procedures to aid in accurate diagnoses, making the expertise of ray tech professionals invaluable.

But what factors influence the pay of travel radiology techs? Several elements come into play, such as the demand for radiology technicians, the average pay of staff radiology technicians, and the highest hourly pay rate that travelers can attain. We will examine the salary spectrum next, to understand how location, experience, and specialization can affect your earning abilities.

Exploring the Salary Spectrum: Understanding Pay Variations for Travel Radiology Techs

A myriad of factors can affect the salary of travel radiology techs, who are responsible for diagnosis and imaging procedure and processes images, including:

• Obtaining certifications
• Specializations
• Experience level
• Geographic location
• Facility type (hospital, clinic, etc.)
• Demand for radiology techs in the area
• Negotiation skills

Moreover, travel radiology techs might have the opportunity to negotiate higher wages with facilities dealing with radiology tech shortages.

How do these factors play out in the real world? Let’s explore the nuances of the salary spectrum and how they relate to the travel radiology tech profession.

From geographic influence to the impact of experience and specialization, this section will help you understand the factors that contribute to variations in pay for travel radiology techs. With this knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the job landscape and maximize your earnings potential.

Geographic Influence on Pay Rates

It’s no secret that the cost of living and demand for travel radiology technologist techs can vary significantly by location. In the United States, the average salary for a travel radiology tech ranges from approximately $1,480 to $4,200 per week, inclusive of stipend. States such as California, New York, and Massachusetts boast the highest pay rates for travel radiology technologists.

Yet, it’s important to consider the cost of living and potential radiation hazards while evaluating job opportunities in different locations. In some cases, a higher salary may be offset by a higher cost of living or a more competitive job market. So, as you map out your career path and evaluate site connection options, keep in mind the geographic factors that can influence your pay rates and minimize potential hazardous effects.

Experience Counts: How Tenure Boosts Income

Experience significantly impacts salary, particularly in the travel radiology field. As you accrue experience and expertise, you can expect to see an increase in your earnings. On average, travel radiology techs can anticipate earning between $30 and $35 per hour, with the salary increase rate dependent on factors such as location, assignment, and experience level.

The type of experience you have can also impact your salary. Variables like facility type (hospital, outpatient center, etc.), and demand for radiology techs in a given area can affect your pay range. To reach peak earning potential, travel radiology techs generally need at least three years of experience. Therefore, focusing on gaining experience and honing your skills can significantly boost your income in the long run.

Specialization and Certification: The Financial Upside

Specialization and certification significantly increase the salary of travel radiology techs. Obtaining a specialization in radiology can enhance your marketability and lead to a higher remuneration. Some of the most lucrative specializations in the travel radiology technologist field offer salaries up to $4,000 per week, along with other benefits such as travel expenses.

To become a travel radiology technologist, certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is required. A specialized travel radiology technician can typically expect a remuneration rate between $1,700 - $2,800 per week, which is higher than the average rates of pay for a general radiology technician. Investing in your education and certifications can undoubtedly pay off in the long run.

Navigating Benefits and Stipends for Travel Radiology Techs

Travel radiology techs also enjoy numerous benefits and stipends, which can greatly improve their overall compensation package, apart from their base salary. These benefits typically include:

• Paid housing
• Transportation
• Per diem allowances
• Excellent benefits packages, including travel expenses.

Housing stipends and comprehensive insurance coverage, such as medical, vision, and dental insurance, are commonly provided to travel radiology techs. Comprehending the full extent of available benefits and stipends can help you fully capitalize on your travel radiology career.

The Apex of Earnings: What's the Top Salary for Travel Radiology Techs?

So, what’s the maximum attainable salary for travel radiology techs? The maximum reported salary, inclusive of stipend, is an impressive $4,200 per week. To attain this level of remuneration, travel radiology techs must focus on:

• Facility type
• Professional progress

The highest remuneration for travel radiology techs can reach up to $4,000 per week, which is comparable to that of other traveling healthcare professions. By focusing on the factors that contribute to reaching the apex of earnings, you can maximize your income potential and enjoy a rewarding career in travel radiology.

Mapping Out the Job Landscape: Where to Find High-Paying Travel Radiology Tech Jobs in the US

• Massachusetts

These states consistently offer the highest salaries for travel radiology techs. Advantis Medical, in particular, has some of the highest paying positions for this role in the country.

Remember, salaries can vary between urban and rural areas, with technologists in densely populated urban areas often earning higher salaries than those in rural areas. As you plan your career path, consider the locations and healthcare facilities that offer the most lucrative opportunities for travel radiology and rad tech/s in the United States. To explore current job opportunities, check out our X-Ray Tech/Rad Tech Travel Jobs page.

Crafting Your Career Path: Strategies to Maximize Your Travel Radiology Tech Salary

Consider these strategies to optimize your travel radiology tech salary:

• Acquire relevant degrees and certifications, including those that demonstrate your ability to practices radiation protection techniques.
• Select facilities and locations offering higher compensation.
• Acquire experience and expertise in travel radiology.
• Negotiate your contract as a radiology tech.
• Establish network and relationships within the travel radiology field.

These strategies can lead to career progression, higher earnings, and secure proceeding through secure www platforms.

Continued education can also have a positive effect on a travel radiology tech’s salary by providing chances for career progression and specialization. By engaging in additional certifications and training, travel radiology techs can enhance their knowledge and abilities, making them more desirable to employers. This can result in higher salaries and improved job prospects.

A Deep Dive into the Day-to-Day: The Role of a Travel Radiology Tech

As a travel radiology tech, your daily work revolves around:

• Using advanced equipment and radiologic procedures to capture interior images of patients’ bodies, aiding in accurate diagnoses
• Traveling to various locations and working in diverse healthcare facilities as a travel rad tech
• Making your day-to-day work both demanding and exhilarating.

From reviewing and evaluating developed x-rays to preparing patients for their imaging scans and procedures, travel radiology techs play a vital role in the healthcare industry. With each new assignment, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge in different healthcare settings and environments, further enhancing your professional growth and earning potential. One of the ways a travel radiology tech contributes to patient care is by ensuring that fluoroscopic film prepares patients for their imaging procedures.

The Full Package: Comprehensive Benefits Beyond Salary for Travel Radiology Techs

In addition to their salary, travel radiology techs often benefit from a comprehensive package of perks and benefits. These may include:

• Excellent benefits packages, such as travel expenses
• Some travel agencies may also offer additional benefits like a 401k plan.

Understanding the full scope of benefits beyond salary is crucial for travel radiology techs. Benefits like housing stipends and healthcare coverage can considerably improve your overall compensation package, ensuring comprehensive care throughout your career.

Housing Options for Travel Radiology Techs: From Move-In Ready to Own Accommodations

Housing is an essential aspect of a travel radiology tech’s experience, as they often need to relocate for assignments. Travel radiology techs are typically provided with housing stipends to cover the expense of their lodgings per travel assignment. However, some may prefer to arrange their own accommodations using a housing stipend.

While considering housing options, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of pre-arranged accommodations, such as move in ready housing, versus using a stipend for personal housing. Pre-arranged accommodations may offer convenience and ready-to-use amenities, but costs may be higher and options limited. On the other hand, using a housing stipend allows for more flexibility in selecting accommodations that meet individual needs and preferences, potentially saving money if the stipend covers the full cost of housing.

For more information on finding suitable housing options, check out our internal blog on the best websites to find travel nurse housing .

Planning for the Future: Retirement Savings Plan for Travel Radiology Techs

Future planning is important for travel radiology techs, and retirement savings constitute a crucial part of this process. Travel radiology techs have access to various retirement savings plans, including the 401(k) Retirement Savings Program, which may include employer matching contributions.

As a travel radiology tech, it’s important to consider how frequent travel and relocation might affect your retirement savings and investment strategies. With potentially higher earnings, travel radiology techs can contribute more to their retirement savings, ensuring a comfortable and secure future. By focusing on long-term financial planning, you can build a solid foundation for your retirement years.

Support on the Road: The Role of a Clinical Manager During Your Entire Travel Journey

A clinical manager provides crucial support and guidance throughout your whole travel rad tech journey, aiding you in handling the challenges and opportunities that accompany the role of a travel radiology tech. Some of the responsibilities of a clinical manager include:

• Coordinating travel arrangements
• Ensuring you have the necessary resources and equipment for your job
• Offering ongoing support and communication to address any concerns or issues that may arise during your assignment

A strong support system, such as a clinical manager, can make a significant difference in your overall experience as a travel radiology tech. By providing guidance and assistance in every step of your journey, clinical managers help ensure that you can focus on delivering top-notch patient care and growing your career in the exciting field of travel radiology.

In conclusion, the travel radiology tech profession offers a unique blend of clinical expertise, travel opportunities, and financial rewards. From understanding the factors that influence pay to exploring the benefits and stipends that enhance your compensation package, this comprehensive guide has provided you with the knowledge and insights needed to maximize your earnings potential and enjoy a rewarding career in the travel radiology tech jobs.

As you embark on your journey as a travel radiology tech, remember that the key to success lies in your ability to adapt, learn, and grow. With the right strategies, support, and determination, you can reach the apex of earnings and create a fulfilling and financially secure future in this exhilarating field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is being a travel xray tech worth it.

Being a travel x-ray tech offers the freedom to tailor professional journeys according to personal preferences, with the flexibility of choosing between short and long contracts. It is certainly worth it.

Which radiology tech gets paid the most?

MRI Technologists have the highest pay among radiology technicians, with a median annual salary of $74,693 and a median hourly wage of $35.91. Radiation Therapists follow with the highest salary with an average salary of $94,000.

How much do travel radiographers make in Texas?

Travel Radiology Technologists in Texas can expect to make an average salary of $2,180 per week, which is 9% lower than the US average of $2,372 per week. This figure was last updated on December 3, 2023, based on 310 active jobs on Vivian.com in the past 7 days.

What factors influence the pay of travel radiology techs?

Location, experience, specialization, and certification all influence the pay of travel radiology techs.

What is the highest possible salary for travel radiology techs?

Travel radiology techs can make up to $4,200 per week, including any stipend.

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TSA highlights features of new security checkpoint at Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport

PULLMAN, Washington - Officials with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today previewed the new security checkpoint in the new airport terminal at Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport (PUW). The checkpoint, which is located in the new terminal lobby, has one lane to screen departing travelers with space to expand to a second lane in the future.

“TSA is excited to begin security screening at the new PUW terminal. We have worked closely with the airport on the design of the security checkpoint to ensure it provides an ideal environment for TSA officers carry-out their important role in airport operations,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Washington Greg Hawko. “Thank you to the airport board for investing in TSA that will allow us to deliver the highest level of security in the most efficient manner." 

TSA began screening passengers in the new terminal at 4 a.m. on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, ahead of the inaugural flight that departed shortly after 5 a.m. The terminal has been under construction for two years and is six times larger than the building it is replacing.

The security checkpoint features expanded queuing space for travelers. There is also a dedicated TSA PreCheck® entrance as well as an area for general screening. There is one travel document checking podium where a TSA officer will conduct identity verification of travelers. In addition, travelers will notice a bright and more open space in the security checkpoint.

Travelers will see familiar security technologies in use when being screened at PUW. 

Passenger screening technologies The checkpoint is outfitted with a body scanner as well as a walk-through metal detector to screen individual travelers. Body scanners use a harmless electromagnetic wave to scan the passenger to detect metallic or non-metallic objects that may be concealed in layers of clothing or on the body. The body scanner is equipped with software that creates a standardized, computer generated image that is the same for every traveler. If the body scanner detects a potential security threat, a yellow box appears on the generic image, onscreen, and that identifies where the TSA officer needs to conduct any follow-up screening. 

Because the body scanner is not a metal detector, many travelers including those with metal hips or knee replacements prefer to be screened by it. In addition, the body scanner does not use x-ray technology and it does not generate x-ray specific images of any traveler. 

Bottle liquid scanner TSA allows travelers to bring medically-necessary liquids in carry-on luggage in quantities larger than 100 ml / 3.4 ounces. In order to ensure that these items do not pose a security threat, TSA utilizes a liquid explosive detection system, which uses lasers to measure the density of the liquid without having to open the container. This type of screening takes seconds and can be used to screen liquids and gels.

Explosive trace detection screening TSOs may conduct explosive trace detection (ETD) screening that involves a swab of a traveler’s hands or their belongings in the security checkpoint. The swab is inserted into a specially- programmed ETD unit that can detect even the smallest amount of explosive residue. TSA has a process in place to resolve any alarms related to the detection of explosive residue.

Checked baggage screening TSA is required by law to screen every bag that is transported on a commercial aircraft, regardless of whether the bag travels in the cabin of the aircraft as carry-on luggage or if it is checked with the airline. The checked baggage screening system at PUW has been upgraded and features an integrated Explosive Detection System (EDS) X-ray unit that uses computed tomography to create a 3-D X-ray image of the contents of each checked bag. This screening is conducted out of the view of the traveling public.

The EDS software is programmed to detect potential security threats. Through a sophisticated and swift analysis of the 3-D image, the EDS is able to determine whether the bag is cleared for travel or if it requires follow-up screening.

If the EDS unit identifies a potential security threat, the image of the contents of the bag will be reviewed to determine if the bag is cleared to travel or if it needs to be sent for a physical inspection by a TSA officer. If a bag requires physical inspection, that screening is conducted in clear view of a closed-circuit television camera.

Travelers receive a “Notice of Inspection” in the bag if it has been opened by a TSA officer. Once the bag is cleared of any security threats and ready for travel, it is repacked and closed prior to handoff to the airline.

The vast majority of bags screened by the EDS do not require additional screening. If a bag is cleared by the EDS, it continues onto an aircraft without any TSA contact.

In 2023, TSA at PUW screened nearly 66,000 departing travelers.

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Blinken Travels to Eastern Europe as Russia Presses War in Ukraine

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken aims to show support for Moldova, which is under threat from Russia, and plans to attend a NATO meeting in the Czech Republic.

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By Edward Wong

Reporting from Washington

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken plans to spend this week showing U.S. support for nations facing a hostile Russia in visits to Moldova and the Czech Republic, where he is scheduled to attend a meeting of NATO foreign ministers that will discuss how to bolster Ukraine.

Mr. Blinken, who made an overnight stop in Kyiv more than two weeks ago, is expected to fly into Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, on Wednesday and meet with Maia Sandu, the nation’s president, who is running for re-election. Ms. Sandu has advocated for Moldova to join the European Union, and she has scheduled a referendum vote on E.U. membership on the same day as the general election in October.

She is expected to run against a pro-Russia candidate, and U.S. and European analysts say Moscow is likely to try to interfere in the election, as it has in other votes in Europe. The Biden administration has spoken publicly of Russian agents carrying out such interference using a variety of means, from hacking to boosting campaigns over social networks to doling out money to favored politicians.

U.S. officials said Mr. Blinken would speak with Ms. Sandu and other top officials about potential threats to the country’s democratic processes, as well as efforts to wean the nation off electricity generated in the pro-Russia separatist region of Transnistria. Moldova recently ended its reliance on gas imports from Russia.

“I anticipate he’ll have a robust package of support for Moldova’s transition, both energy independence or less dependence on sources to the east but also on support for democracy against Russian threats,” James O’Brien, the assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian Affairs, said in a phone call with reporters on Friday.

Mr. Blinken plans to announce more details of American aid to address these issues during his visit, Mr. O’Brien said.

He added that the secretary’s message would “highlight Moldova’s progress in its path toward European integration, its solidifying its democracy, and the threat posed by the Russian interference in its internal processes.”

About 1,500 Russian troops are in Transnistria, which is in the east of Moldova and borders Russia. U.S. officials are watching closely for any signs that President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia might try to annex the territory. Russia officially says it seeks a special status for Transnistria.

In the Czech Republic, which State Department officials now call Czechia, following the lead of the country’s government, Mr. Blinken plans to attend a two-day planning session of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and meet with Czech officials.

The NATO session in Prague, the nation’s capital, is aimed at preparing for the 80th anniversary meeting of alliance leaders in Washington in July. The group is not expected to declare that Ukraine is joining NATO now, an aspiration that President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated repeatedly both before and after Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in 2022. However, NATO officials in Prague are expected to work out the details for a substantial show of support for Ukraine’s progress toward joining NATO, and those will be announced in July, Mr. O’Brien said.

Russian troops are pressing an offensive in Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. The Ukrainian war effort has been flagging in large part because of a shortage of weapons and munitions, and there are fewer citizens able to join the fight. President Biden recently signed into law a bill passed by Congress, despite some Republican opposition, that grants new tranches of military aid to Ukraine, as well as to Israel.

However, Russia is producing munitions at a rapid rate, and U.S.-led sanctions against the nation have not crippled its military industrial capabilities, as Americans officials had once hoped. Mr. Biden and his aides say China has played a decisive role in bolstering Russia through the sale of dual-use equipment and other exports that have allowed Moscow to strengthen weapons production. Mr. Blinken is expected to highlight China’s support for Russia in his discussions with NATO counterparts in Prague.

Edward Wong is a diplomatic correspondent who has reported for The Times for more than 24 years from New York, Baghdad, Beijing and Washington. He was on a team of Pulitzer Prize finalists for Iraq War coverage. More about Edward Wong

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

U.S. and allied intelligence officials are tracking an increase in low-level sabotage operations in Europe  that they say are part of a Russian campaign to undermine support for Ukraine’s war effort.

Some American-made, precision-guided weapons supplied to Ukraine have proved ineffective on the battlefield , their accuracy badly diminished by Russian jamming efforts.

Ukraine has begun releasing prisoners to serve in its army , part of a wider effort to rebuild a military that has been depleted by more than two years of war and is strained by relentless Russian assaults.

Striking a Chord: A play based on a classic 19th-century novel, “The Witch of Konotop,” is a smash hit among Ukrainians who see cultural and historical echoes  in the story of what they face after two years of war.

Europe’s Defense Industry: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine jolted Europe out of complacency about military spending. But the challenges are about more than just money .

Putin’s Victory Narrative: The Russian leader’s message to his country appears to be taking hold : that Russia is fighting against the whole Western world — and winning.

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Our team of visual journalists analyzes satellite images, photographs , videos and radio transmissions  to independently confirm troop movements and other details.

We monitor and authenticate reports on social media, corroborating these with eyewitness accounts and interviews. Read more about our reporting efforts .