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Ukraine Travel Advisory

Travel advisory may 22, 2023, ukraine - level 4: do not travel.

Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Department of State continues to advise that U.S. citizens not travel to Ukraine due to active armed conflict. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

All U.S. citizens should carefully monitor U.S. government notices and local and international media outlets for information about changing security conditions and alerts to shelter in place. Those choosing to remain in Ukraine should exercise caution due to the potential for military attacks, crime, civil unrest, and consult the Department’s latest security alerts.

The security situation in Ukraine remains unpredictable. U.S. citizens in Ukraine should stay vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. In the event of mortar, missile, drone, or rocket fire, follow instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location.

There are continued reports of Russian forces and their proxies singling out U.S. citizens in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine for detention, interrogation, or harassment because of their nationality. U.S. citizens have also been singled out when evacuating by land through Russia-occupied territory or to Russia or Belarus.

U.S. citizens seeking emergency assistance should email [email protected] for assistance. Please review what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas . U.S. citizens may also seek consular services, including requests for repatriation loans, passports, and visa services, at U.S. embassies and consulates in neighboring countries .

On February 24, 2022, the Ukrainian government declared a state of emergency. Each province (oblast) decides on measures to be implemented according to local conditions. Measures could include curfews, restrictions on the freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections, among other measures. Follow any oblast-specific state of emergency measures.

Many in the international community, including the United States and Ukraine, do not recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea in 2014, nor the September 2022 purported annexation of four other Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. There is extensive Russian Federation military presence in these areas. There are also abuses against foreigners and the local population by the occupation authorities in these regions, particularly against those who are seen as challenging Russia’s occupation.

Although Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine severely restricts the Embassy’s access and ability to provide services in these areas, the Department of State and the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv continue to remotely provide certain emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Crimea as well as four other Ukrainian oblasts partially occupied by Russia – Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia – to the extent possible given security conditions.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibiting U.S. aviation operations into, out of, within, or over Ukraine. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the FAA’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices .

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ukraine.

Travel to High-Risk Areas

If you choose to disregard the Travel Advisory and travel to Ukraine, you should consider taking the following steps:

  • Visit our website on Travel to High-Risk areas .
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States.
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
  • Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
  • Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. This plan should specify who you would contact first and how they should share the information.
  • Enroll your trip in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

If you are currently in Ukraine:

  • Read the Department’s country information page on Ukraine.
  • Familiarize yourself with information on what the U.S. government can and cannot do to assist you in a crisis overseas .
  • Have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your contingency plans based on the new information.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Notices related to your travel.
  • Get a COVID vaccine to facilitate your travel.
  • Understand the COVID testing and vaccine requirements for all countries that you will transit through to your destination.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Ukraine.
  • Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Is Kyiv Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Kyiv, Ukraine

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.

This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…

At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.

Ukraine : Safety by City

Kyiv is the capital and largest city of Ukraine with – officially – as much 3 million inhabitants.

One of the great things about Kyiv is that people here are kind and generally easygoing.

If you only speak English, many locals will accommodate you.

Many people adore living in Kyiv, even though it’s sometimes dangerous: the costs are low, the people are friendly, and the city has a lot to offer.

Since Kyiv is a huge metropolis, its cultural life is very vibrant.

There is always something to see, be it a gig, a play, an exhibition or other entertainment.

Kyiv’s nightlife is also rich.

  • Warnings & Dangers in Kyiv

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Generally speaking, Kyiv is not too safe for visitors. It is a city where travelers aren't too common, but if you do visit, some areas should be avoided at all costs.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Driving a car in Kyiv is very dangerous and may prove fatal, especially if you didn’t get your license in Ukraine. Public transportation is one of the most common places where you'll find pickpockets operating.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpockets are a serious issue in Kyiv, and it can occur everywhere so you should be careful particularly in crowded places, in tourist areas, in bars and nightclubs and on public transportation.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

As for natural disasters, what still represents the biggest issue in Kyiv is the legacy of the Chernobyl disaster. It is also susceptible to frequent freezing winters and storms.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

As for violent crime, it has been on the rise in Central Kyiv, especially after dark. This includes muggings, and armed robbery, particularly in secluded and dark streets and areas.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Kyiv and the authorities in Ukraine have announced that they have already disrupted numerous planned attacks precisely in the capital

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scamming is also an issue in Kyiv. Apart from online scams, be careful on the streets, keep an eye on your drink and always check your change twice. Be especially careful around taxi drivers trying to overcharge you.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Kyiv is not a safe place for solo female travelers. Crime is widespread throughout the country and there is political turmoil as well as terrorism threats disrupting peace in the country.

  • So... How Safe Is Kyiv Really?

There are many sights Kyiv offers to its visitors.

When it comes to crime, you should try and lay low and refrain from showing the fact that you’re a tourist or your belongings.

Try to fit in, as foreigners are still rare in this city.

Petty theft is an issue here, so be very careful and guard your stuff.

Kyiv, Odesa and other major cities are more accustomed to tourists, which is why pickpockets here are more common, especially in crowded places like metro, bus and train stations.

And even though bad blood between Russia and Ukraine is unlikely to affect tourists, you should know that there are no government services like police, hospitals, firefighters, ambulance services, etc.

Another big risk here is probably the traffic: namely, a lot of people don’t use seat belts even if their chosen taxi has them – a lot of Ubers don’t have seat belts.

Get a reputable taxi, an Uber Select, or take public transport.

Regarding separatists and war, it’s all politics, and if you are not a civic activist, and aggressively politically-minded personality you may just relax and enjoy discovering this amazing ancient city.

There are no protesters or separatists in the streets, but if there were, it would be wise not to join them.

  • How Does Kyiv Compare?
  • Useful Information

Many countries do not need a visa to enter Kyiv. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of your travel and you need to apply for your visa well in advance as they cannot be acquired on Ukranian airports. If you are not sure about your visa status, contact your local Ukrainian embassy for further information.

Ukrainian hryvnia is the official currency in Kyiv. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and you can expect them even outside of the city. Credit cards are also accepted in most establishments.

The climate is cold and temperate in the capital of Ukraine. Kyiv is a city with a significant amount of rainfall. Even in the driest month, there is a lot of rain. Winters here are warm without much snow while summers are rainy.

Boryspil International Airport is the country's main international airport. It is located in Boryspil, 29 km east of Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Kyiv, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Kyiv Weather Averages (Temperatures)

  • Average High/Low Temperature

Ukraine - Safety by City

  • Where to Next?

Wallpaper-Hd-Kiev-pechersk-lavra-monastery-kiev-ukraine-29106-915×515

9 Reviews on Kyiv

This is not true.

You make it sound so much worse than it is. I am not even going to point out what is wrong, because most of this article is so not true. You should really review this city again.

I agree with Polina. Just came back from Kiev. Great city. Very safe More than certain major Western European or North American cities. The person who wrote such report has not been to Kiev, certainly not recently.

Hi Massimo thank you for your review and I just had a question about traveling to Kyiv. I’m an American and I wanted to meet my lady in the city. How do you recommend I go about getting there? I will be coming from Georgia where I will be staying initially. My lady does not want to travel to me so I have to travel to her. I appreciate any recommendations you may have. thank you Dan

the article is fake, Kyiv is awesome

This article reads noty like a satirical joke poking fun at some ww2 era stereotypes. But in case anyway too it seriously — just don’t take it seriously, because the last time there were no government services, as mentioned in the article, such as the police, ambulance, the fire department etc was back in 1944.

The war with Russia is taking place in the far east and does not affect Kyiv, because it’s a positional for (think ww1 trench warfare)

I’ve been to Kyiv well over ten times and it’s one of the safest cities in the western world. There are no ‘bad’ neighborhoods, you can pretty much go anywhere, walk anywhere, see the amazing restaurants, visit the opera and if you’re a woman your experience is not going to differ at all. Ukrainians are generally very secular, pro-western and you’ll feel comfortable wearing anything you want. Public transportation is just as safe as ubers.

The only people getting scammed, for the most part, are old men visiting the country to find cheap prostitutes, but if you’re a regular person coming to enjoying the great restaurants and visit the theaters — you will have no problems.

Awful article. The author probably had never been to Kyiv.

False information

All wrong on Kyiv and Ukraine. Unless you visit separatist controlled regions, you are reasonably safe (comparing to other Eastern European countries)

I absolutely loved it all and can’t wait to go back, what a beauty and the people are as good as people in England.

Now when Russia has attacked and bombing cities in March 2022. Visiting is dangerous.

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Article Contents

  • Kyiv : Safety by City
  • Overall Risk
  • Transport & Taxis Risk
  • Pickpockets Risk
  • Natural Disasters Risk
  • Mugging Risk
  • Terrorism Risk
  • Women Travelers Risk
  • Weather Averages (Temperatures)
  • User Reviews
  • Share Your Experience

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Ukraine travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:13 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, ukraine - avoid all travel.

Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

On October 10, 2022, Russia launched numerous missile strikes against Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv. The attack resulted in several casualties.

If you are in Ukraine, shelter in a secure place until it’s safe for you to leave.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited.

Useful links

  • Security alert - Embassy of the United States in Ukraine

Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Back to top

Russian military invasion

On October 10, 2022, Russia attacked Ukrainian civilian and government infrastructure in multiple cities, including Kyiv.

Heavy fighting is ongoing in several areas of the country. Bombardments, explosions and missile launches occur on a daily basis. Thousands of civilian casualties have been reported. There are basic supply shortages and essential services disruptions in areas close to the front lines. Strikes and bombardments could also pose a threat to Ukraine's nuclear energy infrastructure, notably to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Security conditions are deteriorating rapidly. Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat.

If you are in Ukraine, you should shelter in a secure place unless it is safe for you to leave the country.

On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka dam located on the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast ruptured, leading to major downstream flooding. Many towns and settlements currently face flooding with additional ones at risk. Thousands of residents are without access to basic services, potable water, and electricity. Unexploded ordnance could be swept downriver and into flooded areas. Evacuation orders are in place between the dam site and Bilozerka, directly West of the city of Kherson. Evacuation sites are reportedly being shelled resulting in civilian casualties. Local authorities have issued boil-water advisories in certain areas due to the risk of water-borne illness.

There are severe disruptions to essential services. Many roads in the area are impassable or closed.

If you are in Kherson Oblast:

  • follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
  • exercise caution
  • monitor local news and weather reports
  • use only bottled water for drinking and cooking

Ukrainian airspace is currently closed. The government of Ukraine has declared a state of emergency and imposed martial law, which gives local authorities broad powers to enforce security measures such as:

  • security checks
  • mandatory evacuation
  • prohibition of assemblies
  • mandatory mobilization and exit ban

Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times, including curfews and evacuation orders.

The government of Ukraine decreed a full military mobilization. If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, you may be subject to military obligations and most likely prevented from leaving the country.

Russian military action in Ukraine could further disrupt transportation routes and the provision of essential services throughout the country.

Our ability to provide consular services in Ukraine is severely limited. You should not depend on the Government of Canada to help you leave the country.

If you are in Ukraine:

  • shelter in a hardened structure and stay away from windows
  • identify the location of the closest bomb shelter
  • maintain a supply of basic food, water and medications
  • monitor trustworthy news sources to stay informed on the evolving situation
  • follow the instructions of local authorities including curfews and evacuation orders
  • ensure that your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
  • review your personal security plans on a daily basis
  • inform a family member or friend of your whereabouts
  • register and update your contact information through the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and encourage other Canadian citizens in Ukraine to do so

If you are able to leave Ukraine safely:

  • use your judgement to decide the best time and the safest means of exit
  • study your itinerary in detail to avoid areas where fighting is taking place
  • verify your destination’s entry requirements regularly since many neighbour countries are adjusting them
  • expect highly congested routes, checkpoints and delays
  • make sure to stop at all checkpoints and roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
  • bring sufficient gasoline if you use your car

The Russian Federation has illegally occupied and annexed Crimea. The area is heavily militarized and Russian authorities have strict control over the area.

Canada doesn’t recognize Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and continues to consider Crimea to be sovereign Ukrainian territory. The Embassy of Canada to Russia in Moscow is only accredited to Russia and therefore cannot provide services in Crimea.

Due to the ongoing situation, the Embassy of Canada to Ukraine in Kyiv has extremely limited access to consular clients.

  • Special entry/exit requirements
  • Risk level for Crimea

Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Russian-backed separatists continue to control sections of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

There is a de facto dividing line, known as the Contact Line, between Ukrainian government-controlled areas (Government Controlled Areas, GCA) and separatist-held areas (Non-Government Controlled Areas, NGCA) of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. There are managed crossing points across the contact line in both oblasts.

Non-Government Controlled Areas (NGCA)

The security situation in the NGCA, and the area within 20 km from the contact line inside the GCA, remains unstable due to armed conflict, including direct and indirect fire. There are occasional bombings in the NGCA.

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by separatist forces within the NGCA. Separatist groups have sometimes threatened, detained or kidnapped individuals at NGCA checkpoints.

Our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in the NGCA of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts is extremely limited.

Government Controlled Areas (GCA)

There are numerous checkpoints controlled by government forces within the GCA.

Uncleared minefields and other remnants of war are present in numerous areas of the oblasts, especially in rural areas.

If you intend to travel in either of the oblasts despite the advisories, it is highly recommended you mitigate risks by conducting secure route planning, consulting with local authorities and/or experienced local partners, and monitoring the security situation where you are travelling.

If you are in the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts:

  • maintain a low profile
  • be vigilant at all times
  • avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings
  • follow the instructions of local authorities
  • monitor local media for the latest information
  • Risk levels for Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is common, particularly:

  • in crowded places
  • in tourist areas
  • in bars and nightclubs
  • on public transportation

In central Kyiv, criminal activity, including muggings, is more prevalent at night. Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.

Harassment and assaults can happen against racialized communities. Local authorities may not respond to racially motivated violence and harassment.

Armed robbery can occur, especially in the larger cities.

Weapons, including small arms and explosives, are present in all areas of the country. On occasion, personal disputes between individuals may involve the use of these weapons. Violent incidents, such as shootings, can occur in both residential and public areas. Tourists are not particularly targeted, but you could find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant.

Bombings and bomb threat hoaxes

Small-scale targeted bombings, including car bombs, have on occasion occurred in Ukraine, including in Kyiv. Attacks are generally linked to criminal activity or are politically motivated with the intent to damage property. Some attacks have resulted in casualties. There is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Always be alert when in public places.

Bomb threat hoaxes are common and can target any location, including, but not limited to:

  • shopping malls
  • transportation hubs
  • government facilities
  • public spaces

If you are in an area affected by a bomb threat, follow the instructions of local authorities and evacuate calmly.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Investment fraud

Unsolicited emails offering enticing business or financial opportunities are most likely fraudulent. Don’t travel to Ukraine with the intention to obtain restitution after losing money to a scam.

If you plan on buying property, or making other investments in Ukraine, seek legal advice in Canada and in Ukraine. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve. 

Scammers often target tourist areas and hotels.

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Avoid running a tab or leaving your credit card with bar or restaurant staff.

Stay alert to possible street scams. One common scam involves a person dropping a wallet or a bundle of money in front of a tourist, hoping the tourist will pick it up. The scammer then accuses the tourist of stealing some of the money. These scams can involve several crooks, some posing as police officers. If this happens to you, don’t pick up the dropped items. Simply walk away without engaging in conversation.

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to Ukraine to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place frequently. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

  • Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities
  • Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, including schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Following the disaster at the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, an exclusion zone of 30 km was established by local authorities which includes the cities of Prypiat and Chornobyl. The exclusion zone remains radioactive. Access to this zone is strictly restricted and must be arranged through a specialized tour operator. Anyone visiting Chornobyl must follow the safety instructions issued by the State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management.

Safety instructions  - State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management

Tourist facilities

Tourist facilities outside major centres aren’t usually highly developed. Plan ahead to minimize safety risks.

Road safety

Travel by road can be hazardous. Most roads outside major cities are poorly maintained. Drivers are often aggressive and have little regard for traffic regulations. Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful.

Avoid driving at night outside major cities. Limited road visibility, poor vehicle maintenance and intoxicated drivers pose hazards.

While roadside services such as repair facilities exist, they are frequently inadequate.

Public transportation

Kyiv has a punctual and reliable metro system. Buses, however, are usually overcrowded and in poor condition.

At airports, order a taxi from a designated taxi booth within the arrivals terminal or use a trusted ride-sharing app.

Don’t hail a taxi on the street. Instead, order one from your hotel or use a trusted ride-sharing app. Negotiate fares in advance, as you may be overcharged.

Exercise caution on trains, particularly at night, due to the risk of robbery and muggings. Store personal belongings and travel documents in a safe place and don’t leave the compartment unattended. Ensure that the door is secured from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Ukrainian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Ukraine.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period Work permit: required

If you intend to stay in Ukraine for more than 90 days, you must obtain a visa prior to entering the country. For further details on visas and work permits, please contact the Embassy of Ukraine to Canada.

You must have an invitation from a Ukrainian company or individual if travelling to Ukraine for any other purpose than tourism. Before you travel, contact the nearest Ukrainian embassy for more information about the invitation process.

  • Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
  • Ukrainian visa information - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Ukraine.

Crimea and Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts

Ukrainian authorities will refuse entry to foreigners who attempt to enter Ukraine from Russia through Crimea or separatist-controlled areas in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

If you choose to travel to these areas despite the current risk level, you must first obtain a special permit from Ukrainian authorities. To travel to Crimea, permission is required from the State Migration Service of Ukraine. To travel to the Non-Government Controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, one needs a special permit from the Security Service of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government requires that this permit be presented, along with your passport, at designated checkpoints along the administrative boundary of the occupied Ukrainian territory.

If you don’t enter Crimea or Non-Government Controlled Areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts through the designated Ukrainian checkpoints, you will be banned from entering Ukraine in the future.

Children and travel

Children under the age of 16 who are travelling outside Ukraine without one or both parents, and who are travelling on a Ukrainian passport, require a notarized letter of consent from the parent or parents who are not travelling.

  • Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak . Polio can be prevented by vaccination.

Recommendations:

  • Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
  • One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care standards vary throughout the country. Facilities are limited outside major cities. Doctors and nurses may not be able to communicate in English (or French) and not all hospitals have translation services available.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

Local police may ask to see your passport and visa at any time.

  • Carry adequate identification at all times
  • Keep a photocopy or digital copy of your passport in a safe place, in case of loss or seizure
  • Always cooperate with local authorities and be aware that they could detain you while your identification documents are being verified

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

Don’t take pictures of military installations or other government buildings.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Ukraine.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Ukraine, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Ukraine.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Ukraine, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Ukrainian court.

If you are in this situation:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in Ukraine to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If you’re planning to visit Ukraine for the purpose of commissioning surrogacy arrangements, you should consider the potential challenges involved in pursuing international surrogacy and seek specialist legal advice on Ukrainian and Canadian laws prior to making any arrangements.

It is also recommended that you consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on current policies regarding citizenship through descent, as well as on the issuance of Canadian travel documents.

The Embassy of Canada to Ukraine can’t provide recommendations on the selection of surrogacy agencies.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Ukrainian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Despite large and active 2SLGBTQI+ communities in major urban centres, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Ukrainian society. Avoid public displays of affection.

Expect a heavy police presence at Pride parades and certain 2SLGBTQI+ events. Counter-protests and violence are possible. Have a plan for safely exiting the area when participating in Pride parades or other 2SLGBTQI+ events.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

You must carry an international driving permit

Car insurance is mandatory.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol.

International Driving Permit

The currency of Ukraine is the hryvnia (UAH).

Credit cards are accepted in most major cities. Foreign currency can be exchanged at most banks, hotels and licensed exchange booths.

Upon entering or leaving Ukraine, you must make a declaration to customs if you have €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies. Undeclared amounts exceeding the equivalent of €10,000 may be seized.

There are strict customs regulations and procedures regarding the export of antiquities and items of historical interest. It is prohibited to export antiques, works of art, historical treasures and other similar items without a special permit from the Ukrainian Ministry of Culture.

Brush and forest fires are common in eastern and southern Ukraine in July and August. In case of a major fire, stay away from the affected area. Air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

  • Always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • Monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Snow and Ice Storms

In winter, avalanches, heavy snow and freezing rain pose a risk. They can make roads impassable and can cause power disruptions. These conditions can affect access to isolated areas. The conditions can also limit the ability of first responders to reach these areas in case of emergency.

Flooding occurs in western Ukraine during the winter thaw and following sustained heavy rains. This may cause damage to roads and infrastructure. Plan your route carefully.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 102
  • medical assistance: 103
  • firefighters: 101
  • general emergencies: 112 (from cell phones only)

Consular assistance

If you are in Ukraine and require consular assistance:

  • email: [email protected] or
  • contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, at any time

You should also register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

How to visit Kiev in 4 days

By Joan Torres 10 Comments Last updated on December 28, 2023

travel to Kiev

The concept and perceptions of Kiev are a bit strange.

People who haven’t visited Kiev perceive it as a distant Eastern European city with close ties to Russia, a lot of apparent corruption and frequent protests going on.

The thing is that – as Bradt travel writer Michael Palin once said  – few stories in English romanticize Kiev and, for the last few years, with all the violent demonstrations and the ongoing war against Russia , many people from the West are even questioning the city’s safety and potential appeal.

Nevertheless, despite all these negative views, your perception of the capital changes radically as soon as you step into the city, because what you find is an extremely vibrant, energetic and beautiful capital with so much going on. 

Kiev is, in fact, one of my favorite cities in the world, but I only discovered that upon my arrival, because Kiev is a city that, unexpectedly, tends to wow all its visitors.

There is just so much to do here, from visiting Baroque-style buildings to a large WWII Heritage, loads of Soviet things to see, a great bar scene and, basically, something going on in almost every corner.

Traveling to Kiev won’t disappoint you.

I spent two weeks in the city and this guide contains everything you need to know to visit Kiev , including transportation tips, the best places to stay and, of course, the best things to do in Kiev in a 4-day itinerary, including off the beaten track stuff.

For a more practical guide to the country, don’t forget to read my ultimate Ukraine guide

things to do in Kiev

In this Kiev travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

  • How to visit Kiev
  • Moving around
  • Where to stay
  • Day 1 – Around Pecherski
  • Day 2 – Around Shevchenkivskyi
  • Day 3 – Around Podilski
  • Day 4 – Get offbeat
  • Day trips from Kiev
  • More information

Travel insurance for Ukraine I recommend IATI Insurance : COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your discount when buying through this link

How to prepare your visit when you travel to Kiev

Kiev is big, like damn big.

In area, it is almost as big as Berlin and definitely bigger than Madrid or Paris, so it might easily be the 3rd or 4th largest city in Europe.

Despite its size, however, it only has 3 metro lines.

It also has an extensive tram and city bus system but, when you have to make a connection, it just takes forever to reach some places.

Visit Kiev on a guided tour CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL AVAILABLE TOURS IN KIEV

Moreover, many things to do in Kiev, as well as bars and restaurants, are scattered all around the city, so you can’t just leave where you are staying and expect to find everything along the way. 

This means that visiting Kiev requires a bit of preparation and planning ahead, so that is why, in the itinerary section of this post, I thought it would be helpful to split all the places to visit in Kiev into area and day by day.

Kiev or Kyiv? The first day I posted something about Kiev on my Instagram Stories , I got a message from a young Ukrainian lady who was kind of upset because I spelled it Kiev instead of Kyiv. The fact is that Kyiv is the Ukrainian way of writing it and Kiev is the Russian transliteration, so given the current (and past) relationship between both countries, Ukrainians are a bit sensitive regarding this topic and, in any case, their spelling is the correct one, as the city was named after one of the three city’s founders, Kyi . As for me, in the article I am using Kiev because this is the term English-speaking people search for and, by any means, I don’t want to get political about it. In private, however, I will always spell it Kyiv. 

travel to Kiev Ukraine

How to move around Kiev

Metro – As I said above, Kiev has two metro lines and one ticket costs as little as 8UAH, which is the equivalent of 0.30€. Something that surprised me about Kiev’s metro is that it is always very busy, no matter the time of the day.

Trams and city buses – Slower option but both tram and bus can take you literally everywhere. Google Maps can easily tell you which bus or tram number you should take when planning your route.

Taxi – It is easier if you download a taxi app and Bolt seems to be the most popular one.

Interested in visiting Minsk? Read my 3-day Minsk itinerary

street art Kiev

Best places to stay in Kiev

Wherever you stay, I strongly recommend you stay close to a metro station and, if possible, near the center.

Otherwise, getting back home every day can be a time-consuming experience.

Where to stay in Podil area

Podil is the fashionable neighborhood where you can find the old pre-Soviet architecture. It is attached to downtown, is very well-connected and here you will find a wide array of bars, restaurants, and cafés.

Backpacker Hostel – Dream Hostel Kiev – Top backpacking hostel in the city, with a great traveling atmosphere and great location. A really good place.

Budget Apartment – Danchenko’s Apartment – In Kiev, booking an apartment is a popular thing to do.

A good hotel – Bursa Hotel – A nicely decorated hotel with a trendy style in the heart of Podil.

Where to stay in Pecherski (downtown)

This is the area around Independence Square and where you can find some of the most famous landmarks such as Saint Sophia Cathedral.

Backpacker Hostel – Friends Forever – A great hostel at the heart of downtown.

Mid-range Hotel – Ukraine Hotel – Surprisingly, the famous hotel that overlooks Independence Square isn’t expensive at all.

Things to do in Kiev in 4 days

These are, in my opinion, the unmissable places of any Kiev itinerary.

Map of what to see in Kiev in 4 days

Each pin color refers to a different day of your Kiev itinerary

Day 1 – Things to do in Kiev around Pecherski

This is basically downtown and the first place you need to visit in Kiev is Independence Square, the most central square and from where you can do a loop while stopping by a couple of landmarks.

Independence Square

Or Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Ukrainian is one of the most beautiful and impressive squares I have ever visited in Europe , and one of the most symbolic as well, as Maidan has witnessed quite a few particularly violent and important revolutions, the last one being the Euromaidan , a series of demonstrations that lasted for several months back in 2014, when many people were murdered by the police.

You may remember these events because it was all over the news.

Today, at least during my visit, there is a permanent outdoor exhibition with photos and memorials from the protests.

As I said, I suggest you come here first but this is also one of the best places in Kiev to see the sunset.

Maidan Nezalezhnosti is definitely, one of the best things to see in Kiev.

Interested in booking a walking tour around Kiev? CLICK TO LEARN MORE

visit Kiev Ukraine

Saint Sophia Cathedral

This gorgeous cathedral was the first place in Ukraine to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. As in many places around Ukraine , you need to purchase a separate ticket for each place within the complex, including general entrance, getting inside the cathedral, going up the bell tour, visiting museums, etc.

I think the general entrance cost me around 65UAH (2.40€) – which was already enough for me – but if you want to visit everything, you may need to spend nearly 10€.

Food tip – Between Saint Sophia and Golden Gate you will find the Milk Bar , a Ukrainian café specializing in fancy dairy products and traditional pastries. Everything they serve is amazing, seriously, and I recommend you order Ukrainian Syrniki , which are some sort of cottage cheese pancakes with sour cream and honey. Delicious.

Kiev itinerary

Golden Gate

This place is advertised everywhere as one of the best things to do in Kiev but, in my opinion, it’s pretty boring.

Basically, these are the last remains from what used to be Kiev before the Mongolian invasion in the 13th century. What I liked, however, is that there was always a street musician playing in front of the gates.

National Opera 

A Viennese style building constructed in 1901. You can’t get inside unless you purchase tickets and you can check all the events on this link .

St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral

One of the most important Orthodox churches in Ukraine is the Little Prince-themed Volodymyr Cathedral, completed in 1896.

St. Volodymyr's Cathedral Kiev

Bessarabsky Market

This is one of the busiest markets in Kiev, and a cool place to take a break because inside there is a craft beer place and a pretty authentic Vietnamese food stall run by actual Vietnamese. 

Bessarabsky Market Kiev

Day 2 – What to do in Kiev around Shevchenkivskyi

The area around Shevchenkivskyi and Pechersk Lavra is my most favorite place to visit in Kiev, as it contains a large variety of very different sights to check out.

Hydro Park (Island)

Nobody comes here but I seriously recommend you stop by.

Hydro Park is the island located in the Dnipro River right in front of the Lavra, and one of the top places to go in Kiev.

On the shores that overlook the Lavra, there is a restaurant serving beer and Khachapuri Megruli , and I swear it was the best Khachapuri I ever had outside of Georgia, and you can trust my judgment because I lived in Georgia for 7 months . 

We were sitting under the sun, with a beer, an excellent khachapuri, the best views of the Lavra and there wasn’t anybody else around!

what to see in Kiev

Arsenalna metro station

According to the locals and Wikipedia , Arsenalna is the deepest metro station in the world (105m) but, according to other sources like World Atlas , there is an even deeper one in Pyongyang, North Korea (110m).

In any case, unless you travel to North Korea, Arsenalna is the deepest metro station you will ever see. To get out, you need to stand on the two escalators for nearly 4 minutes (I timed it).  By the way, this is the closest metro station to the Lavra.

Salute Hotel

The coolest Soviet thing to see in this part of Kiev is an old hotel with an extravagant cylindrical shape. It must be a pretty awesome hotel to stay for a few days, and it is not very expensive.

soviet architecture in Kiev

Holodomor Memorial

Holodomor, better known in the West as the Great Famine , was a famine that took place in the 30s when several million Ukrainians starved to death.

This unfortunate event, however, wasn’t a coincidence but it was a real genocide organized by Joseph Stalin himself in an attempt to eliminate Ukrainian nationalism.

There is so much to say about it and I recommend you read the full story here .

One of the most sobering, yet interesting, things to see in Kiev is visiting the Holodomor Memorial, which is also a museum where you can read several absolutely crazy stories from survivors of the Great Famine. A must-see. 

Food tip – Before Salute Hotel, there is a traditional Ukrainian restaurant named Varenichnaya Katyusha that serves all sorts of local food and is always packed with Kievans. They have all types of Ukrainian dishes but their specialty is varenyky , which are the local dumplings. 

Holodomor Memorial Kiev

Pechersk Lavra

The top tourist attraction in Kiev, Pechersk Lavra, is a massive Christian Complex and the headquarters for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Composed of several churches and cathedrals with white walls and shiny green and gold rooftops, Kiev Lavra is gorgeous, and spiritual. Most buildings you see here were built between the 11th and 18th centuries. 

The general entry ticket costs 80UAH and it allows you to climb the bell tower, as well as visiting the cave. I think this is more than enough but, if you are interested in visiting the museums and entering other churches, you will have to purchase separate tickets for each.

Want to visit the Lavra on a guided tour? CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

places to visit in Kiev

Pechersky Park

This was something I wasn’t expecting. 

On my way to the Great Patriotic Museum, I bumped into a military exhibition.

Well, not one, but a few so if you are into military tanks, planes, and helicopters, Pechersky park has several outdoor exhibitions containing all types of military arsenal. Pretty cool. 

Some of the weaponry belongs to WWII and Soviet times but there are a couple of tanks (partially destroyed) that have been used during the ongoing war against Russia and each one has a plaque that tells the story of the tank and the soldiers that were riding in it. Some of the stories were pretty sad.

travel guide Kiev

Great Patriotic War Museum and Motherland Monument

Soviets refer to World War II as the Great Patriotic War because it was a real conflict and struggle to protect their motherland, the Soviet Union, and the massive titanium statue that overlooks Kiev, wearing a sword and a shield with the hammer and sickle, represents precisely that.

If you can only visit one museum in Kiev, it should be this one.

Would you like to visit the museum with a professional guide? CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Motherland Monument Kiev

Day 3 – Places to visit in Kiev around Podil

Podil area is the most European part of town.

Zhytniy Soviet Market

The best way to start your day is to check out this local market located in a Modernist Soviet building . It was built in 1982 and the interior is characterized by its peculiar roof. 

Interesting to see in this market are all the salo stalls. I have never seen so many together. Salo is like slices of pork fat, very salty, and Ukrainians either have it as a snack or with borsch, the local beetroot soup. I found it pretty disgusting but for Ukrainians, it’s like a delicacy. Anyways, Zhytniy Market has tens of food stalls and the ladies will invite you to taste it.

things to see in Kiev

Chernobyl Museum

Extremely disappointing.

I don’t recommend you visit this museum because there is nothing to see, not even to read, and if you want to know about the nuclear disaster just book a tour to the exclusion zone . CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TOUR TO CHERNOBYL

Kontraktova Square and around

Podil’s center and where you find a lot of bars and restaurants.

Beer Tip – In Kontraktova Square, there is a beer store called Hop Hey that sells several types of craft draft beer to take away, a concept which I haven’t seen anywhere else. I think they have several shops across the city but, if you want to skip the overpriced beer of Kontraktova, Hop Hey is a great alternative (drinking in the street is allowed in Kiev).

Podil, Kiev

St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery

The place where this pyramid of bright domes is built dates from the 11th century but it was demolished under Stalin’s command in 1937 and rebuilt afterwards shortly after independence. 

This is one of the most important religious places to visit in Kiev.

By the way, this monastery and the next places from the list are located in the upper part of Podil and to get there, you can get the funicular located right next to Poshtova Ploshcha metro station.

best things to do in Kiev

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

I like Ukraine because today, religious places get mixed and camouflaged among Soviet stuff, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is a clear example because this is an impressive concrete Soviet building placed right next to an important Christian site, St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery.

Saint Andrew’s Church

This Baroque-style church is one of the most emblematic things to do in Kiev, especially because from there, you get breathtaking views of Podil’s district. Check this great photo I took with my drone.

things to do in Kiev Ukraine

Kiev’s Old Town

Saint Andrew’s Church is the beginning of Kiev’s Old Town, a set of narrows alleys full of art galleries and painters that reminded me more of Paris than an Eastern European city.

Interested in booking a walking tour for your Kiev itinerary? CLICK TO LEARN MORE

Kiev travel guide

Day 4 – Off the beaten track things to do in Kiev

If you are into quirky stuff, on your last day you may want to add the following places in your Kiev itinerary.

Tank Factory

Don’t get excited, not yet.

Around 20km from Kiev’s downtown, there is a functional tank factory but, as you may imagine, visits are not allowed.

The factory, however, has a tank graveyard which you may find if you are lucky because the industrial complex is huge. I personally walked all around the area and couldn’t find but I did find the tank road, which was a 500m muddy path full of tank marks that lead directly to a factory backdoor. 

Doing what I did was illegal so be aware of that and, if you want to try your luck, this is the location: 50.420848, 30.702709. There is a metro stop (Chernovyi Khutir) 2 or 3km away.

is kyiv safe to visit 2023

Kiev Crematorium

A great example of Soviet Modernism, Kiev Crematorium is one of the most unique Soviet buildings in Ukraine. As you may imagine, it is located in the middle of a cemetery, a pretty big one.

When we visited it, there were two funerals and it was a bit awkward, so we left pretty quickly.

If you like weird stuff, don’t forget to check the 7 most offbeat things to visit in Belarus

Underground Kiev

To be very honest, I didn’t take this tour but one of the coolest things to do in Kiev is visiting its underground tunnel system and checking out a nuclear bunker from the Cold War.

Kiev Circus and Obelisk Hero City

Not that offbeat because it is not far from downtown, but if you are interested in Soviet stuff, you can check out the Soviet Circus and the Obelisk Hero City, which commemorates the defense of the city during WWII and which has a Gold Star on its top, a symbol of heroism in the Soviet Union.

Soviet Crematorium Kiev

Best day trips from Kiev

The capital of Ukraine is also an excellent base for doing a few cool day trips.

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone

You already know about Chernobyl , so I won’t go into details, but the exclusion zone is 150km north of Kiev and, if you want to visit it, you must go on a tour (you can’t visit it independently).

Strategic Missile Museum

Seriously, this was one of the best places I visited in the whole Ukraine, an old Soviet nuclear missile launch facility today turned into an awesome museum where, besides checking out all the military nuclear arsenal, you can also get into one of the silos and the underground control room. Really worth the trip and my full review is on its way.

144km northeast of Kiev you find Chernihiv, a UNESCO World Heritage city and one of the most beautiful in Ukraine, containing beautiful churches and old architecture.

Despite being so close to Kiev, not many travelers decide to take this day trip but I personally think it is an unmissable attraction to visit from Kiev.

For more day trips, you can read this post from Kathmandu and Beyond . 

is kyiv safe to visit 2023

More information for visiting Kiev

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Book your tour to Kiev

All guides and articles for traveling in Ukraine destination

  • Travel Guide to Chernobyl
  • Ukraine Travel Guide
  • Lviv Travel Guide
  • Ukraine Itinerary

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visit Kiev

10 comments

Hard to take anything you say seriously after stating in the very beginning that Kyiv has only two metro lines.. haha

You are right, it was a small mistake. It has 3, not 2. After Kiev, I flew to Minsk, which only has 2 metro stations, that’s why the confusion. In any case, it doesn’t change anything. The city is too big for just having 3 metro stations.

I was just wondering. If you have any guided tours.? Any of these places you go?

Thank you for such a deep and wide view of Kyiv. After reading this article, I’m inspired to explore some new places of this vibrant city you’ve mentioned, that I didn’t know about, despite being a Ukrainian.

Thanks Iryna! It was a pleasure meeting you in Lviv 🙂

Thanks for the helpful article (and your blog, generally)! Regarding the Strategic Missile Museum, how did you get down here? Is there public transit, and any memory of how much it would cost? Thanks.

Hey! It was around 15USD per person, more or less. I went there from Kharkiv, doing several train/bus/hitchhiking combinations. It took me 2 days!

Ohh! Thank you so much for these warm words and a review of Kyiv city! As a tour guide in Kyiv, I am happy to read pleasant words, not only critique..Kyiv can definitely impress those who come for the first time and almost all my guests always want to come back, and explore more of it!

This is such a great, helpful article! Kyiv is such a special city that I loved, and what’s happening in Ukraine right now is horrific and I’m praying it’s over imminently. The people are warm and friendly and I cannot wait to visit this beautiful city and people again one day.

I can’t believe how an update on 13th September 2023 can fail to mention the war! Which was what I was interested in. An earlier review on TripAdvisor mentioned how crowded buses were and the difficulties finding a seat on long haul routes such as to Warsaw. A much more useful review would contain practical information instead of just being another puff piece. So 5 out of 10 for highlighting places to visit.

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is kyiv safe to visit 2023

  • International
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Foreign Secretary visits Kyiv before Ukraine Recovery Conference

The Foreign Secretary has travelled to Kyiv ahead of the UK hosting the Ukraine Recovery Conference in June 2023.

is kyiv safe to visit 2023

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, 5 June 2023.

  • Foreign Secretary James Cleverly has travelled to Ukraine to underline the UK’s unwavering support for the country
  • comes ahead of major recovery summit set to be held in London later this month to spur the country’s economic recovery
  • Foreign Secretary meets President Zelenskyy in Kyiv, following the Prime Minister’s bilateral with him in Moldova last week

Ukraine can count on the UK’s support, both on the battlefield and during its recovery, the Foreign Secretary has told the country during his second visit to Kyiv.

The visit comes as the UK prepares to host the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London later this month, which will bring together world leaders, business chief executives, NGOs and the Ukrainian Government to discuss how to rebuild and bolster the country’s economic outlook.

While in Ukraine the Foreign Secretary met President Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to discuss how the UK can continue to best support Ukraine, from the battlefield to banking guarantees.

It is the fourth meeting President Zelenskyy and senior UK ministers have held in as many weeks, with Prime Minister holding bilaterals with President Zelenskyy at the meeting of the European Political Community in Moldova last week, in Japan at the G7 Summit in May, and at Chequers in the UK the week before the Hiroshima meeting.

The Foreign Secretary’s Kyiv visit builds on his engagements in Estonia last week and a meeting of the NATO Foreign Ministers in Norway , where he reiterated the UK’s call for Ukraine to join NATO and for the Alliance to be made even stronger with the swift accession of Sweden.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

As Ukraine continues its sustained fightback against Russia, I was able to see for myself the true horrors and devastation of what Russia has wreaked on this sovereign state. Forcibly deporting children, razing cities like Bakhmut, Izium and Mariupol to the ground and committing atrocities are not the acts of a responsible international state. They are the actions of a hostile regime that is in violation of the UN Charter. Ukraine will win this war and can count on our support.

This is the second time the Foreign Secretary has visited Ukraine since Russia’s illegal invasion, last visiting in November 2022 to discuss the UK’s support for the country. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has also visited the country twice, most recently in May 2023 .

During this week’s trip, the Foreign Secretary visited a site that was under Russian occupation for most of March 2022. The farmland site was a part of Ukraine’s agricultural infrastructure and since being reclaimed, is now in the process of being demined by the HALO Trust. Demining will help the agriculture sector’s recovery in Ukraine by making large areas of land safe to access again.  It is estimated that 30% of Ukraine’s territory (174,000 square kilometres) has been exposed to intense combat operations, and so may be contaminated by landmines and other explosive remnants of war. We have provided HALO Trust with £2.5 million of funding to protect the most at risk communities and help the Ukrainian people take back their land and lives from the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war.

The Foreign Secretary visited a pioneering rehabilitation hospital supporting veterans of the fighting, which makes prosthetics on site. Its work is helping Ukrainians to rebuild their lives. The hospital is just one example of Ukraine’s ability to adapt through technology despite the war.

The Foreign Secretary also met children who were forcibly deported to Russia and listened to some survivors’ accounts at a centre supporting their return to life in Ukraine. Last year, the UK announced sanctions against the Russian Children’s Rights Commissioner, Maria Lvova-Belova, for her alleged involvement in the forced transfer and adoption of Ukrainian children. She has since become subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant.

The UK has been unwavering in its support for the people of Ukraine as they resist a brutal and unprovoked invasion. Last year the UK provided £2.3 billion in military aid to Ukraine – the largest package of support of any European nation and second only to the United States’ support. This includes the delivery of StormShadow missiles to help its military to push back Russian forces based on Ukrainian sovereign territory.

We have also pledged £1.5 billion in economic and humanitarian support, which has funded the delivery of more than 11 million medical items.

The Ukraine Recovery Conference will be held in London on 21 to 22 June 2023 and will bring together governments and industry leaders to develop a concerted multi-sector plan to help Ukraine to recover from Russia’s illegal invasion.

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Is kyiv safe to visit (and other travel questions).

Last updated: 29 July 2023

2022 Update We are deeply saddened by what is happening across Ukraine at the moment and our hearts go out to everyone whom has been affected by this ongoing tragedy. Obviously, travel to Ukraine is not an option so please consult your local Government website for guidance and official charities on how to best donate.

This post was written in early 2017 following our visit in late 2016, we hope our Ukraine posts continue to provide some historical context about what travel to Ukraine was once like.

Before heading to Ukraine for the first time, we had some questions. Some might even call them silly questions. They say there are no silly questions but if that’s honestly the case why do I feel foolish about asking them?

So this post is a little different from my usual travel posts about new cities, the best things to explore when in an area, and yes, even my historical epics (I’m sure that Roma is breathing a sigh of relief)

The grounds of the Kyiv Lavra

In today’s post I wanted to share 3 silly questions I had when researching our visit to Kyiv. These questions made me feel foolish for thinking of them but I honestly didn’t have an answer for them at the time. Perhaps you’re in the same boat?

See also: 9 Fascinating Things to Experience in Kyiv

Question 1: Is it Safe to Visit Kyiv, Ukraine?   

The short answer is YES .

The Donbass Region

What about all the violence I hear about in Ukraine at the moment? Is that near the capital?

There are certainly areas in Ukraine which are dangerous and shouldn’t be visited. Most notably the Donbass Region in Ukraine’s east, where the volatility of the eastern region is well-known and doesn’t appear to be subsiding any time soon. But how far away is Kyiv from the current danger zones?

Google map showing distance from Kyiv to Donbass Region

The good news is that Ukraine’s capital city of Kyiv is located 723 km (450 miles) away from the current fighting between the Ukrainian Government and Pro-Russian insurgents. Kyiv is considered to be safe place to visit, as safe as any major city in the world where you would expect to exercise a degree of caution in your regular activities.

Many Governments have up-to-date travel advice, alerts and warnings for countries around globe.  Before travelling you can always check your Government’s travel advice:

UK Foreign Travel  | US Department of State  | Smart Traveller (Australia) 

Euromaidan Protests

What about the protests that happened in Ukraine? Is it safe to visit there?

We decided to visit Kyiv in November because we wanted to explore during the off-peak season. What we didn’t realise that our visit would coincide with the third anniversary of the Euromaidan protests.

is kyiv safe to visit 2023

The infamous Euromaidan protests began as a reaction to former President Viktor Yanukovych’s government who suspended preparations to sign the association agreement to bring Ukraine closer to EU membership. This sparked an immense protest in the centre of Independence Square which, over time evolved into anti-Government (anti-corruption) protests which led to extreme violence and the deaths of 130 protestors and 18 police officers. Countless images and videos of protesters clashing with police were shared across the entire world through social media and international news outlets.

We were concerned about the timing. We spent hours searching online for up to date information about Independence Square, Euromaidan, and any unrest in Kyiv. We did read about a smaller protest which took place on the evening of the third anniversary, and there were some scuffles so we did wonder if it was safe to visit.

The Monument to the Founders of Kyiv & the Independence Monument

In fact, when we did visit Independence Square during our visit it was the complete opposite of what was being portrayed in the media. There were no protests and no riot police. In fact, it was a lone police car and a couple of other tourists in the Square with us.

Question 2: Is it Kiev or Kyiv?

How do I spell Ukraine’s capital? Is it Kiev or Kyiv?

We both consumed ourselves with a whole of lot of reading in the lead up to our trip – countless blogs, magazines, Wikipedia, TripAdvisor reviews, the works.  The one thing that  kept coming up was two different spellings for Ukraine’s capital city. I had no idea what the difference meant, if one was more right than the other, or I was simply over thinking it (as I tend to do some days).

Inside the Chernobyl Museum, Kyiv

It turned out that the spelling of Kiev , which is how most of the western world writes it, is based on the Russian spelling of Ukraine’s capital city. The Ukrainians on the other hand spell their capital city as Kyiv .   One interesting fact is that in 1999, the Ukrainian government formally adopted the spelling of Kyiv for all official documents and government acts.

The Ukrainian people have made a conscious decision to write the name of the modern capital city of Kyiv, so shouldn’t the rest of the world follow? I’ve chosen to use Kyiv because that’s how the Ukrainians spell it. If the people of the country are requesting the world starts using Kyiv instead of Kiev then it makes sense to me.

Question 3: Is it The Ukraine or just Ukraine?

Short answer; Ukraine, drop the The

The country is called Ukraine. You don’t say I’m going to visit The Australia so why do we add it to the front of Ukraine? I don’t know why I’ve always added the The to the front of Ukraine, it’s just been something that I’ve always done. After doing a little reading it turns out, I’m not the only one.   

leaf on railway tracks

There’s an excellent article on Business Insider which explains the reasons and one of the main reasons behind is that the word for Ukraine comes from an old Slavic word which is loosely translated into the word borderland which seems to imply that use of THE Ukraine refers to the country as a part of Russia.

As discussed above, the history between Russia and Ukraine is long and complicated and if the Ukrainian people don’t refer to THE Ukraine then why should we?

See also: Food, Cocktails, & Coffee in Kyiv

We even asked one of our tour guides if we should say The Ukraine or just Ukraine and she gave us a look of bemusement and replied with “Just Ukraine”. Our guide’s look seemed to suggest that as if anyone would ever call her country The Ukraine .

Yup, we heard it direct from a local.

Final Thoughts

If you’re currently planning a visit to Kyiv or to other cities in Ukraine then I hope post has been helpful with answering some of the more simple (but frequently asked) questions. We absolutely loved visiting Kyiv and would definitely recommend that you add Ukraine to your next holiday destination.

is kyiv safe to visit 2023

Born and raised in Sydney Australia and currently based in London, I absolutely love exploring the UK and Europe at every opportunity. It still thrills me that all it takes is an hour flight to be in a new country with a completely different history, language, food, and culture that is just waiting to be experienced. We started our blog, Roaming Required, as a way to keep in contact with family and friends, and over the last 10 years, the blog has grown and evolved and it remains a real passion project. We've travelled a lot in the 10 years living in London and there's still plenty more to experience. So, why not join us for the adventure and come roam with us!

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Comments (4)

Dear Russell and Roma,Thank you so much for taking the time and trouble to share your experiences. My wife is planning a trip to Ukraine to visit her family, after many years of having to stay away (the unofficial pot-shots that were unpublicised, were still a major issue, according to my in-laws), but it seems that it’s all subsided now.I found the list of conflict areas, and the SIM card blogs particularly useful, but will read more of your posts, as I find your writing so entertaining and thoroughly interesting.Best Wishes on your continued travels.

Thank you George for the very kind comment. Please wish your wife happy travels on her trip back to Ukraine

This is a great post! The media really shows a lot of turmoil and danger in Ukraine. And while there is danger, it is important to remember that the whole country isn\\’t covered in it! Ukraine is very underrated and I think people are too quick to think their assumptions are correct. Good on you for doing the research on it!Btw- I always did wonder about the whole \\”The Ukraine\\” thing!

Thanks so much for the lovely comment 😊 You’re absolutely right, there is so much more to discover in Ukraine than what is only shown on the news. And so happy that you found the “The Ukraine” helpful, I knew I couldn’t be the only one who wondered about it 😃

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Russia keeps threatening world leaders when they go to Ukraine. What happens if someone gets hurt?

  • A Russian missile landed near the Greek prime minister during a visit to Ukraine last week.
  • It's not an isolated event — several visiting NATO leaders have been threatened by air attacks.
  • Experts told BI that the incidents reflect Russia's willingness to provoke Ukraine's allies.

Insider Today

Last week, Russia launched a deadly missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Odesa just as Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was visiting its port.

"We heard the sound of sirens and explosions that took place near us," Mitsotakis said, per The Guardian , adding that there wasn't time to reach a shelter.

But, he wrote on X: "We shall not be intimidated."

Many details are still emerging about the incident, but sources told Reuters that the strike hit less than half a mile from Mitsotakis.

It incited international outrage, and was far from an isolated incident.

In the two years since Russian President Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion, allied dignitaries visiting Ukraine have been harried by strikes — and in one case, a drone — in the cities they've visited.

Air raid sirens went off during President Joe Biden's visit to Kyiv in February last year.

Russian strikes also cast a shadow over the visits of top EU diplomat Josep Borrell , UN Secretary-General António Guterres , as well as German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier .

Many of these strikes killed Ukrainian civilians, which has become part of Putin's modus operandi in the war.

As such, it's unclear whether all of these incidents point to a single strategy — or are, indeed, intentional, said Cristian Nitoiou, a senior lecturer in diplomacy and international governance at the UK's Loughborough University.

"Definitely, I think Russia has been trying to be quite aggressive and intimidate Western leaders," he told Business Insider.

However, he said he doubts that there is a plan "to actually kill or specifically target a key policymaker from the European Union or from the United States."

Even so, there's clear menace involved.

In February, a Russian drone ominously tailed German Defense Minister Annalena Baerbock in the southern city of Mykolaiv, sending her and her retinue scurrying away. Russia frequently uses drones to help target artillery strikes.

Both Nitoiou and Rafael Loss, a policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, told BI that events like this will have set off intense diplomatic discussions with Moscow.

Related stories

Incidents like these also signal that Russia is far more willing to escalate matters in Ukraine than Ukraine's allies are, Loss said.

What happens if someone gets hit?

Imagine, for a second, that one of these world leaders was actually hit.

NATO's principle of collective defense — Article 5 — doesn't apply to armed attacks in this scenario as they would not be in NATO space , Loss told BI.

But it could trigger Article 4, where NATO states consult each other on what to do in response.

"And out of that could emerge some kind of diplomatic, political, economic, or even military response," Loss said.

How an affected country reacts may depend on how hawkish it is toward Russia, Nitoiou added.

Countries like Poland and the Baltic states — which have long been wary of their larger neighbor and are vocal about the possibility of a larger conflict — are more likely to escalate with unilateral action, he said.

But the most likely scenario is that none of Ukraine's allies would opt for a military escalation, he said.

Russia is 'greasing' a slippery slope

Russia is testing NATO's attitude to risk, Loss told BI, and the incidents involving leaders visiting Ukraine can be read as part of a much wider strategy of provocations.

"Any conflict crisis can be described as a sort of slippery slope towards escalation, but I think over the past two years we've seen that Russia is sort of deliberately greasing the slope in many ways," he said.

He pointed to when a Russian missile was deemed to have entered NATO airspace by passing over Poland in late December.

In March last year, a Russian fighter jet also clipped a US Reaper drone over the Black Sea and caused it to crash.

Actions like this aim to manipulate Ukrainian allies' attitude to risk, stalling them from helping over fears that it would prompt an escalation, Loss argued.

"Russia is trying to shape this by creating these kinds of risks and uncertainties very much in the minds of Western policymakers," he said.

Loss believes that French President Emmanuel Macron's recent suggestion that NATO troops could be deployed to Ukraine — albeit in a nonlethal capacity — is a way of pushing back on this.

It would be a way to make Putin think more about potential escalations if French soldiers were killed, he said.

As it is, Russia seems "very comfortable" raising the stakes while Western countries continue to urge restraint, Loss said.

Incidents like the one with the Greek prime minister last week "certainly point to a growing confidence on the Russian side that there's not going to be any consequences for these kinds of activities," he added.

Watch: VIDEO: Missiles hit Ukraine as Russia launches 'full-scale invasion'

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E.U. Finds a Way to Make Russia Pay for Weapons for Ukraine

Using interest earned on frozen Russian assets held in Europe, the bloc plans to raise billions. But other ways to pay for new weapons remain elusive.

  • Share full article

A Ukrainian armored vehicle on a road with bare trees lining it.

By Matina Stevis-Gridneff and Monika Pronczuk

Reporting from Brussels

Under tremendous pressure to come up with billions of dollars to support Ukraine’s military and backfill its members’ own dwindling arsenals, the European Union said Wednesday that it had devised a legal way to use frozen Russian assets to help arm Ukraine, just as it was considering other mechanisms to bolster its defense industries.

The developments are an important milestone, with U.S. funding for Ukraine remaining stuck in Congress and Ukraine’s defenses sagging as shortages of ammunition, artillery shells and missiles force battlefield rationing.

Though the European Union is looking at a number of different ways to find cash for defense purchases, they all face hurdles.

The goal to “make Russia pay” for Ukraine’s arsenal and for its reconstruction has made for a popular slogan among the allies, but parlaying it into actual policy has proved difficult, largely because of legal concerns around liquidating Russian state assets frozen under sanctions.

Now, after months of political wrangling, the European Commission, the E.U. executive branch, has found a way to use the profits from those frozen Russian assets for Ukraine’s benefit, with most of it going to military support for Ukraine.

How the plan will work

Set for approval by E.U. leaders meeting in Brussels on Thursday, the plan could provide Ukraine with up to 3 billion euros, or about $3.25 billion, a year, or as much as 15 billion euros ($16.3 billion) from 2023 to 2027, depending on market conditions. The first payment to Kyiv could be made as soon as July, the commission said on Wednesday.

After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Western nations took the unusual step of freezing more than $330 billion in Russian central bank assets held overseas. The bulk of them — over $217 billion — is in the European Union. With payments to Russia blocked by sanctions, Moscow has been unable to gain access to those assets, sell them or benefit from interest earned on them.

As such, cash generated from the assets has remained stuck overseas, with a vast majority held in Belgium by Euroclear, a financial services company. Under the E.U. plan, 97 percent of profits generated by those assets as of Feb. 15 would go to Ukraine. Companies like Euroclear would retain 3 percent to fund ongoing and future litigation by Russia trying to claw back its assets and revenues.

This year, 90 percent of that windfall would go to funding weapons for Ukraine, the commission said, with the rest reserved for the bloc’s fund for the reconstruction of Ukraine.

“The Russians will not be very happy,” Josep Borrell Fontelles, the top E.U. diplomat, said this week. The amount of money, he added, “is not extraordinary, but it is not negligible.”

An earlier version of this plan was delayed twice in the course of 2023 over disagreements among member states and European Central Bank concerns. The bank, the Eurozone’s version of the U.S. Federal Reserve, warned that using assets from another country’s central bank could harm Europe’s reputation as a safe place to store money, which could harm the bloc’s aspiration to increase the international use of its common currency, the euro.

As Mr. Borrell had predicted, the Russians were outraged about the proposal. “This is outright banditry and theft,” said the Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, on Thursday, Russia’s TASS news agency reported.

The Kremlin spokesman, Dmitri Peskov, was more restrained. “The Europeans are perfectly aware of the damage that such decisions may cause both to their economy and to their image, their reputation as reliable guarantors of inviolability of property,” Tass quoted him saying.

How else can the E.U. raise money for the war and weaponry?

The revenues from the frozen Russian assets are a start, but the European Union will need billions more to continue supporting Ukraine and bolster its own defense, particularly with the looming possibility of a complete rupture in American aid to Ukraine under a Trump presidency.

Arsenals across the bloc’s 27 members have been depleted after two years of weapons and ammunition transfers to Ukraine. Just as important, the European defense industry says it needs more certainty and upfront investment before it can ramp up production.

Building an integrated military industry is new territory for the European Union, which from its inception has been primarily an economic and trade alliance.

But the need for Europeans to invest in defense has grown more urgent since recent remarks by former President Donald J. Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. He said last month that he would oppose NATO’s defense of European members who underpaid toward the alliance’s joint defense needs and that he would “encourage” Russia to “do whatever the hell they want” in Europe.

Europeans took note. “For decades, Europe has not invested enough in its security and defense,” said Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, which sets policy priorities, in a letter to the E.U. leaders meeting in Brussels Thursday. “Now that we are facing the biggest security threat since the Second World War, it is high time we take radical and concrete steps to be defense-ready and put the E.U.’s economy on a ‘war footing.’

“This means spending more, and buying more jointly, thus more efficiently,” he added. “We must also help the defense industry access private and public funds.”

At the Thursday summit, E.U. leaders will discuss the idea of having the bloc’s development and climate bank, the European Investment Bank, venture into defense purchases — a major shift in its strategy and purpose from climate change and green energy, highlighting the urgency felt across the European Union to bolster military capabilities.

Some E.U. nations would like the bloc to jointly issue bonds to raise cheap funding for defense. But this is not popular among the richer E.U. nations, most notably Germany. The bloc also maintains the European Peace Facility, an off-budget pot of money that it has slowly tapped for defense purchases for Ukraine. France wants this fund to pay only for made-in-Europe equipment, which is seen as a major limitation given that the European defense industry says it is unable to produce enough quickly to satisfy growing needs.

Meanwhile, E.U. countries operating outside E.U. strictures and structures have been able to act faster to support Ukraine, underscoring the bloc’s rigidities. The Czech Republic has been leading a buyers’ group with other E.U. allies and has already secured 300,000 shells for Ukraine as its stockpiles run dangerously low.

Biden administration officials have made frequent trips to Europe to discuss using Russian assets to aid Ukraine. At a gathering of finance ministers in Brazil last month, Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen said that seizing assets outright was a possibility and suggested that there was a legal justification for doing so.

But the meeting was marred by divisions among the policymakers. Some, such as the French finance minister Bruno Le Maire, argued that taking Russian central bank assets directly would violate international law.

Eshe Nelson contributed reporting from Frankfurt, and Alan Rappeport from Washington.

Matina Stevis-Gridneff is the Brussels bureau chief for The Times, leading coverage of the European Union. More about Matina Stevis-Gridneff

Monika Pronczuk is a reporter based in Brussels. She joined The Times in 2020. More about Monika Pronczuk

Our Coverage of the War in Ukraine

News and Analysis

Russian missiles streaked into Kyiv  in the biggest assault on the Ukrainian capital in weeks, injuring several people and damaging several buildings.

Jake Sullivan, President Biden’s top national security official, made a secret trip to Kyiv to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky and reaffirm the United States’ unwavering commitment to Ukraine.

Under pressure to come up with billions of dollars to support Ukraine’s military, the E.U. said that it had devised a legal way to use frozen Russian assets  to help arm Ukraine.

Symbolism or Strategy?: Ukrainians say that defending places with little strategic value is worth the cost in casualties and weapons , because the attacking Russians pay an even higher price. American officials aren’t so sure.

Elaborate Tales: As the Ukraine war grinds on, the Kremlin has created increasingly complex fabrications online  to discredit Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, and undermine the country’s support in the West.

Targeting Russia’s Oil Industry: With its army short of ammunition and troops to break the deadlock on the battlefield, Kyiv has increasingly taken the fight beyond the Ukrainian border, attacking oil infrastructure deep in Russian territory .

How We Verify Our Reporting

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 .

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Joe Biden’s surprise visit to Kyiv ‘unprecedented in modern times’, says US – as it happened

First time a US president visited a ‘country at war where US military does not control critical infrastructure’, says national security adviser

  • What we know on day 362 of the invasion
  • 20 Feb 2023 Closing summary
  • 20 Feb 2023 US president Biden is in Poland, says Polish deputy minister
  • 20 Feb 2023 Summary of the day so far
  • 20 Feb 2023 Germany warns China not to supply weapons to Russia
  • 20 Feb 2023 Wagner boss says he had to ‘apologise and obey’ for ammunition
  • 20 Feb 2023 Russia says relations with Moldova ‘very tense’
  • 20 Feb 2023 Biden visit 'unprecedented in modern times', says US national security adviser
  • 20 Feb 2023 Kremlin confirms high-level visit from China as Zelenskiy warns of 'world war'
  • 20 Feb 2023 Biden: Americans stand with Ukraine, the world stands with Ukraine
  • 20 Feb 2023 Zelenskiy: Talks with Biden ‘very fruitful’
  • 20 Feb 2023 Summary of the day so far …
  • 20 Feb 2023 Biden promises more arms for Ukraine on surprise visit to Kyiv
  • 20 Feb 2023 Biden to announce more weapons for Ukraine, more sanctions, following Kyiv visit
  • 20 Feb 2023 US president Joe Biden arrives in Kyiv in surprise visit ahead of invasion anniversary
  • 20 Feb 2023 Zelenskiy says Macron 'wasting his time' in talks with Russia
  • 20 Feb 2023 Zelenskiy says Ukraine will defend Bakhmut but 'not at any price'
  • 20 Feb 2023 Foreign ministers to meet on EU-wide ammunition deal
  • 20 Feb 2023 EU foreign affairs chief calls for more ammunition
  • 20 Feb 2023 Summary and welcome

Russia poses a clear military threat in Sweden’s immediate area but its forces are largely tied up in the war in Ukraine , the Swedish Military Intelligence and Security Service (Must) said on Monday.

“The European security order as we know it has ceased to exist … and with that the risks for Swedish security have also increased,” Reuters reports Lena Hallin, head of Must, told a news conference.

Hallin also said she expected Russia to strengthen its military capability in Sweden’s immediate area when it was possible, in response to Sweden and Finland applying for Nato membership.

She said that Must judged that Russia wants to avoid current tensions escalating into an armed conflict with Nato.

“But there is considerable uncertainty, mainly relating to the Russian leaderships’ willingness to take high risks,” she said, adding that the high level of tension raised risks that accident or misjudgment could lead to conflict.

Dmitry Medvedev , outspoken long-term ally of Vladimir Putin, and currently deputy chair of the Security Council of Russia , has posted to Telegram his view of Joe Biden’s visit to Kyiv. Medvedev, who was formerly president and prime minister of the Russian Federation, writes:

Biden, having received security guarantees, finally went to Kyiv. He promised a lot of weapons and swore allegiance to the neo-Nazi regime to the grave. And of course, there were mutual invocations about the victory that would come with new weapons and a courageous people.

Medvedev went on to say “and here it is important to note that the west really delivers weapons and money to Kyiv quite regularly. In huge quantities, allowing the military-industrial complex of Nato countries to earn money” and, he implies, siphon some of the weapons off to sell to “terrorists around the world.”

Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, has posted some more images of US president Joe Biden ’s trip to Kyiv on his Telegram channel, with the message “The democratic world will win this historic battle. Ukraine will win.”

King Charles III has visited Ukrainian troops being trained in Wiltshire in the south-west of England. As well as the recruits, the monarch met instructors from a variety of nations, including New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Lithuania, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden and Finland. The king was accompanied by Gen Sir Patrick Sanders, the chief of general staff.

King Charles III meets with Ukrainian recruits in Wiltshire.

Members of Germany ’s ruling Social Democratic party (SPD) have expressed scepticism about the country meeting the Nato goal of members spending 2% of its economic output on defence, after the new German defence minister said he wanted to meet the target as soon as possible. Boris Pistorius, who took over the defence post this January, said last week that 2% “is not enough” and should be seen as the “floor” rather than an upper limit of Nato members’ defence spending plans. In 2022 Germany spent around 1.7% of its GDP on defence. Pistorius has taken a notably more hawkish rhetorical stance than the chancellor, Olaf Scholz, telling the Munich Security Conference over the weekend that Ukraine must win the war if Russian aggression is to be curbed in the long run. Scholz has in the past notably avoided that same phrasing, instead insisting that “Russia must not win this war”. In an interview on Monday, however, the SPD’s co-leader Saskia Esken appeared to try to reign in her freshly appointed party colleague, questioning whether tying defence spending to GDP was “the right way”. “Ten billion euros [more] is a lot of money,” Esken told newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ). The coalition government’s other projects, such as setting Germany on renewable energy tracks, expanding its digital networks and tackling child poverty, also needed to be considered in the next budget, she said.

Julian Borger

Jake Sullivan, the US national security adviser, has been speaking more about what Biden hoped to get out of the trip, and it sounds like keeping the US and Ukraine very much on the same page was key.

“Coming over, the president was very focused on making sure that he made the most of his time on the ground, which he knew was going to be limited,” Sullivan told reporters.

So he was quite focused on how he was going to approach his conversation with President Zelenskiy and how the two of them were really going to look out over the course of 2023, and try to come to a common understanding of what the objectives are.

The US national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has been describing Biden ’s conversations with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

They spent time talking about the coming months in terms of the battlefield, what Ukraine needs, the capabilities to be able to succeed on the battlefield. They talked about Ukraine’s needs in terms of energy, infrastructure, economic support, humanitarian needs, and they also talked about the political side of this, including the upcoming UN General Assembly session on Ukraine, as well as Ukraine’s peace formula and Ukraine’s efforts to rally international support for a just and sustainable and durable peace built on the principles of the UN Charter, chief among them sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On the question of whether Biden and Zelenskiy had spoken about particular weapons systems, particularly F16 fighter jets, that might be provided to Ukraine , Sullivan was opaque.

The national security adviser said:

I think the two presidents both laid out their perspectives on a number of different capabilities that have been thrown around in the press, both recently and over the course of several months, and I will leave it at that.

President Joe Biden paid tribute to his Ukrainian counterpart’s “courage and leadership” in a message written in the guestbook at Mariinsky Palace.

Oleksandr Kubrakov, Ukraine’s vice prime minister for restoration, tweeted a photograph of Biden’s message which reads:

I am honored to be welcomed again in Kyiv to stand in solidarity and friendship with the freedom loving people of Ukraine. Mr President, please accept my deepest respect for your courage and leadership. Slava Ukraini! Joe Biden.
🇺🇦🇺🇸Grateful for support, Mr.Biden! It’s a great honor ti welcome ⁦ @POTUS ⁩ to Kyiv! 🇺🇦🇺🇸 ⁦ @USAmbKyiv ⁩ #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/C1OC6FKmjW — Oleksandr Kubrakov (@OlKubrakov) February 20, 2023

Russian state-owned Rossiya 24 news channel has launched a countdown until Vladimir Putin ’s address to Russia’s federal assembly tomorrow.

Valerie Hopkins writes in the the New York Times that some analysts have said that Joe Biden’ s trip to Ukraine today has raised the stakes, and that the Russian president may make additional edits to his speech to “make it even tougher”.

Rossiya 24 has started a countdown for Putin’s address tomorrow. Some analysts are saying Biden’s trip to Kyiv has raised the stakes, and Putin may make additional edits to his speech to “make it even tougher.” ( @Stanovaya ) pic.twitter.com/aOiiK8b0C0 — Valerie Hopkins (@VALERIEinNYT) February 20, 2023

Jonathan Finer, the deputy national security adviser, has been giving some details about Biden’s trip, saying it has been months in the making and finally green-lighted on Friday after a huddle of top officials in the Oval Office.

Finer did not confirm Biden’s mode of transport, however. We are told that and further logistical details will be provided once it is safe to do so.

“The travelling party accompanying the president was extremely small, consisting basically of a handful of his closest aides, a small medical team, a photographer and the security package,” Finer said.

This visit was meticulously planned over a period of months involving several offices in the White House: the chief of staff’s office, the White House military office, as well as a small number of colleagues from the Pentagon, Secret Service, and of course, the intelligence community which offered threat assessments on the visit.

“Only a handful of people in each of these buildings were involved in the planning for operational security reasons,” Finer said.

The president was fully briefed on each stage of the plan and then made the final go or no go decision after a huddle in the Oval Office, and by phone with some key members of his national security cabinet, on Friday. Obviously, this was all worked very closely between the White House and the highest levels of the Ukrainian government, who have become quite adept at hosting high level visitors. Although not one quite like this.
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Japanese leader Kishida 'outraged by the cruelty' on surprise trip to Kyiv; China's Xi 'stands with a war criminal': Live updates

While the leaders of China and Russia were pledging increased cooperation Tuesday in Moscow, the head of another Asian power made a strong statement of his own with a surprise visit to Kyiv.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida became the final leader of a Group of Seven country to show support for war-torn Ukraine by traveling to Kyiv, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Kishida also paid tribute to the victims of alleged Russian atrocities at a site outside the capital.

Kishida's unexpected trip took some of the thunder away from the summit Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted some 500 miles away with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. The two visits highlighted the war’s repercussions for international diplomacy as countries line up behind one combatant or the other.

Though China professes neutrality, it has condemned Western sanctions and promoted a peace proposal that doesn't call for Russia to withdraw its troops, effectively sealing its territorial gains in the provinces it has illegally annexed. Ukraine rejects those terms outright, and Zelenskyy told reporters his team sent his own peace plan to China but had not heard back.

Putin said the Chinese proposal could provide a basis for a negotiated settlement and accused Ukraine's Western allies of not wanting the fighting to end. 

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel issued a statement  Tuesday saying, "Kishida stands with freedom, and Xi stands with a war criminal."

'FRIENDLY NEIGHBOR': China's Xi visits Moscow; Russia cites 'monstrous consequences' of Putin arrest warrant

Developments:

►China has shipped more than $12 million in drones and drone parts to Russia since it invaded Ukraine, despite Beijing's claim of neutrality, The New York Times reported, citing official Russian customs data from a third-party data provider.

►NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg says the alliance has no proof that China is providing weapons to Russia, but officials are aware that Russia has sought military equipment from Beijing, the German news outlet Deutsche Welle reports .

►Ukraine received another $1.6 billion from the European Union's $18 billion aid package, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced . "Our support helps keep Ukraine running while defending itself," she said. "Together, we're writing Ukraine's European future."

►30,000 tons of wheat arrived in Kenya as part of the Grain from Ukraine humanitarian program. "Despite Russian aggression, we won’t give up our participation in overcoming global challenges," Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tweeted .

Opinion: Don't send cluster bombs to Ukraine. Just look at Laos.

Japan PM Kishida pays homage to victims of atrocities in Ukraine

Kishida placed flowers outside a church in Bucha, the town outside Kyiv that became a symbol of Russian atrocities, hours after arriving for his unexpected visit.

“I’m outraged by the cruelty," said Kishida, the first Japanese leader to enter a war zone since World War II. "I represent the Japanese citizens to express my condolences to those who lost their lives."

Ukrainian First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova welcomed Kishida, joining him in Bucha and at a memorial to soldiers in Kyiv.

"Ukraine is grateful to government of Japan for helping us to overcome difficult winter & providing generators to our people," Dzhaparova tweeted. "With such partners as Japan, we will rebuild our country."

Japan, which has the world's third largest economy after the U.S. and China, has contributed more than $7 billion to Ukraine.

US response to China-Russia statement: Pull troops out of Ukraine

China and Russia issued a joint statement after their leaders met for about three hours Tuesday, and U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby singled out parts that call for preserving United Nations principles, respecting international law and ending all steps that contribute to the “escalation of tension and prolongation of hostilities.”

“We agree,” Kirby said of these points. “One way to stop the hostilities is to pull Russian troops out of Ukraine. But short of that, Mr. Putin could stop bombing hospitals, he could stop bombing schools, he could stop launching Iranian drones into civilian infrastructure.”

Kirby said if China wants to play a constructive role in the war, “they ought to press Russia to pull its troops out of Ukraine.” And he rejected an assertion in the resolution that says China has an “objective and unbiased” view of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“I don't think you can reasonably look at China as impartial in any way,'' Kirby said. "They haven't condemned this invasion. They haven't stopped buying Russian oil and Russian energy.”

He accused Xi and his regime of “parroting the Russian propaganda that this is somehow a war of the west on Russia, that it's some sort of existential threat to Mr. Putin. That’s just a bunch of malarkey.”

-- Joey Garrison

Putin issues another veiled nuclear threat after remark by British official

Putin, who has sometimes made veiled threats of using nuclear weapons to defend Russia, appeared to hint at that again in response to a British plan to give Ukraine tank rounds containing depleted uranium.

“If that happens, Russia will respond accordingly, given that the collective West is starting to use weapons with a nuclear component,” he said.

The comment referred to remarks Monday by U.K junior Defense Minister Annabel Goldie, who wrote: “Alongside our granting of a squadron of Challenger 2 main battle tanks to Ukraine, we will be providing ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds which contain depleted uranium. Such rounds are highly effective in defeating modern tanks and armored vehicles.”

Goldie's statement drew pointed responses from Russian officials, but weapons expert Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, former commander of Britain’s Royal Tank Regiment, told The Associated Press it was “reckless” of Putin “to try and suggest Britain is sending nuclear material” to Ukraine. He said depleted uranium is a common component of tank rounds, possibly even used by Russia.

“Putin insinuating that they are some sort of nuclear weapon is bonkers,” he said. “Depleted uranium is completely inert. There is no way that you could create a nuclear reaction or a nuclear explosion with depleted uranium.”

Pentagon plans speedier delivery of Abrams tanks, Patriot systems

The Pentagon said it's speeding up delivery of Abrams tanks to Ukraine with the aim of getting the 70-ton vehicles to the war zone by the fall. Also Tuesday, officials at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, told reporters that training of 65 Ukrainian soldiers on Patriot missile defense systems has gone so well that it will be completed sooner than expected and two of the advanced weapons could reach the battlefield in a matter of weeks.

The original plan was to send Ukraine 31 of the newer M1A2 Abrams, which could have taken a year or two to build and ship. But officials said the decision was made to send the older M1A1 version, which can be taken from Army stocks and will be easier for Ukrainian forces to learn to use and maintain. The tanks still won't arrive for a Ukrainian spring offensive that is expected to begin next month. 

The Abrams, among the most advanced tanks in the world, has thick armor, a 120 mm main gun, armor-piercing capabilities and advanced targeting systems. The tanks have a top speed of about 42 mph. 

Russian missiles in Crimea destroyed by 'mysterious' explosion

A "mysterious" explosion in occupied Crimea destroyed multiple Russian cruise missiles being transported by rail that probably were being prepared to devastate Ukrainian cities , the Ukrainian Defense Ministry says.

Anton Gerashchenko, an adviser to the minister of internal affairs, posted video  on social media of an explosion, apparently in the city of Dzhankoi in northern Crimea. Ukraine hinted at responsibility; military spokeswoman Natalia Humeniuk described the strike as a signal to Russia that it should leave the Black Sea peninsula it took from Ukraine by force in 2014.

"Right now, the way ahead is clear – they (Russian forces) need to make their way out by rail already," she said Tuesday on Ukrainian TV.

Russia has been firing the missiles , which have a range of 1,600 miles or more, from ships in its Black Sea fleet. The defense ministry statement said the blast "continues the process of Russia's demilitarization and prepares the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea for deoccupation."

Russian state media made no mention of the missiles but said a 33-year-old man was injured by a falling drone in Dzhankoi. Mayor Igor Ivin said multiple drones were reported and the attack damaged power lines, a house, a store and a college building.

Russia's spring offensive could end soon

Russia's spring offensive in Ukraine is "likely approaching culmination," and Kremlin forces appear to be intensifying efforts to consolidate modest gains realized in recent weeks before losing the initiative, a Washington-based think tank reports. The Institute for the Study of War says in its most recent assessment that Russian forces made marginal gains in and around the brutally contested eastern city of Bakhmut and stepped up fighting around nearby Avdiivka.

Russian advances could prompt Ukraine to withdraw from Bakhmut or Avdiivka, the assessment says, but it adds that neither retreat appears likely.

"This increased tempo of Russian operations in the Avdiivka area has reportedly led to major losses and is likely a misguided effort to pull Ukrainian forces away from other areas of the front," the assessment says. It says Russian forces are unlikely to sustain this increased tempo.

Russia to begin releasing recruited convicts

Thousands of Russian convicts who have fought with Wagner Group mercenaries are expected to be pardoned and released within the next few weeks. Wagner prisoner recruitment peaked in autumn 2022, and inmates are being offered commutation of their sentences after six months, the British Defense Ministry says . Although about half of the prisoners probably have been killed or wounded, evidence from Russia suggests the group is "following through on its promise" to free survivors, the ministry said in its most recent assessment of the war.

Wagner mercenaries have led the Russian charge in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine, particularly in the battered city of Bakhmut. The region has been the scene of the war's most brutal battles in recent months.

"With Wagner now likely banned from recruiting more prisoners, this exodus will worsen its personnel problems," the assessment says. It adds that the "sudden influx of often violent offenders with recent and often traumatic combat experience will likely present a significant challenge for Russia’s war-time society."

Russian officials scoffs at 'American exceptionalism'

The U.S. and its allies are trying to turn the world against Russia by sowing hatred against the country and attempting to discredit it, Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolay Patrushev said Tuesday. Patrushev said an independent Russia "does not suit the United States, which hides behind its own made-up theory of American exceptionalism." Patrushev accused the U.S. of "toying with the norms of international law" and trying to impose its own values on the world – on U.S. terms.

Contributing: The Associated Press

Moscow shooting: Islamic State says it carried out gun attack that left at least 60 dead at concert

Gunmen have opened fire on crowds at a large concert hall in the city of Krasnogorsk in the Moscow region, killing at least 60 and injuring more than 100, according to Russian state media. Explosions have been reported and a huge blaze is engulfing the venue.

Saturday 23 March 2024 04:54, UK

Gunmen storm Crocus City Hall, and a fire is viewed from outside. Pics: Reuters

  • More than 60 dead and over 100 injured
  • Islamic State claims it carried out attack
  • US says its intelligence confirms IS claim
  • Putin ally says culprits will be 'mercilessly destroyed' - and sends warning to Ukraine
  • Western countries issue condolences
  • Video shows gunmen storming Moscow concert hall
  • Diana Magnay:  Putin's win was inevitable - but what comes next?  
  • Live reporting by Emily Mee

Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia's commissioner for children's rights, has said children are among the more than 60 victims of the shooting at Crocus City Hall, to the west of the capital in Krasnogorsk.

In a statement written in Russian on the Telegram messaging app, she said: "We are in touch with the commissioners for children's rights of Moscow and the Moscow region.

"Among the victims of the terrorist attack are children. Information about their condition is regularly updated. Any additional assistance will be provided immediately."

The attack has come days after Russian President Vladimir Putin told the the board of the Federal Security Service, the country's intelligence agency, that "Western structures" had been engaging in "outright blackmail" when they warned Moscow of potential terrorist attacks.

Mr Putin told those gathered at the board meeting: "I would also like to recall the recent provocative statements by a number of official Western structures regarding potential terrorist attacks in Russia. All these actions resemble outright blackmail and the intention to intimidate and destabilise our society.

"You are well aware of them, so I will not go into details at this point."

Following the shooting on Friday, a US National Security Council spokesperson said America shared information about a potential terrorist attack in Moscow with Russia’s government earlier this month.

Russia's Investigative Committee has said the number of victims killed in the attack is now more than 60, with over 100 others injured.

Russian state news agency RIA quoted a spokesperson for the Investigative Committee as saying it was too early to say anything about the fate of the attackers.

Meanwhile, President Putin has wished a speedy recovery to those injured, state news agency TASS reported, citing deputy prime minister Tatiana Golikova.

The US has intelligence confirming Islamic State's claim of responsibility for the attack, an American official has said. 

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official said the US had warned Russia in recent weeks about the possibility of an attack. 

"We did warn the Russians appropriately," the official told Reuters.

Meanwhile, a National Security Council spokesperson told Sky News' US partner NBC News that the US shared information about a potential terrorist attack in Moscow with Russia’s government earlier this month.

The US Embassy in Russia warned American citizens to avoid crowds on 7 March and said it was monitoring reports that extremists might attack large gatherings in Moscow.

“Earlier this month, the US government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow — potentially targeting large gatherings, to include concerts — which prompted the State Department to issue a public advisory to Americans in Russia,” NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said.

“The US government also shared this information with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding ‘duty to warn’ policy,” Ms Watson said.

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the shooting, calling it a "terrorist attack".

In a statement, he said he "firmly condemns this terrorist attack, claimed by the Islamic State".

He added that France stands in solidarity with the victims.

The UN secretary-general condemns the shooting attack in the "strongest possible terms", a spokesperson has said. 

Antonio Guterres "conveys his deep condolences to the bereaved families and the people and the government of the Russian Federation", they said in a statement. 

"He wishes those injured a speedy recovery." 

Moscow earlier hit out at the UN, saying it had not offered a strong enough condemnation of the attack, after Mr Guterres's office said it was saddened by the incident.

The number of people wounded in the shooting at a concert hall near Moscow has totalled 146, according to TASS news agency. 

Officials earlier said more than 100 people had been injured.

Twenty-eight of those are at the Sklifosovsky Institute of Emergency Care, the news agency added. 

A Russian politician quoted by Reuters news agency has said the country's National Guard has now left the concert hall where the shooting took place. 

A team had searched underground parking, as well as the ground and first floors of the building. 

The attackers are still presumed to be at large, RIA news agency has said. 

A number of Western nations have issued statements expressing condolences. 

The French foreign ministry said the images out of Moscow were "terrible" and that the attack was "odious acts".

The German foreign ministry said its "deepest condolences go out to the families of the victims". 

As we reported earlier, White House spokesperson John Kirby called it a "terrible, terrible shooting attack".

Now US Republican senator Mitt Romney has added: "The intentional targeting and murder of civilians is vile and evil regardless of the perpetrators - Putin against Ukrainians and terrorists against the Russians. Today's massacre in Moscow is tragic."

Yvan Gil, Venezuela's foreign minister, expressed "our strongest condemnation of the armed attack".

"We send out condolences to the families of the victims and we stand in solidarity with the Russian government."

More pictures are emerging from the scene, where firefighters have been seen tackling the blaze at Crocus City Hall.

Nearby, the Russian National Guard was photographed securing the area, as emergency services helicopters flew overhead.

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  1. Ukraine Travel Advisory

    Travel Advisory May 22, 2023. Ukraine - Level 4: Do Not Travel. O D K E N H U T C. ... If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location. ... 04112 Kyiv, Ukraine. Telephone +38 (044) 521-5000. Emergency

  2. Is Kiev Safe to Visit in 2024?

    KYIV, UKRAINE - Feb. 25, 2022: War of Russia against Ukraine. A residential building damaged by an enemy aircraft in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv/Drop of Light/Shutterstock. Right now, Kiev is extremely unsafe to visit due to the war in Ukraine. Governments advise their citizens to avoid travel to any parts of Ukraine, including Kiev.

  3. Is Kyiv Safe for Travel RIGHT NOW? (2024 Safety Rating)

    Updated On November 7, 2023. Written by Travel Safe Team. Share. 1576. Review. 9. Safety Index: 52 * Based on Research & Crime Data. ... Generally speaking, Kyiv is not too safe for visitors. It is a city where travelers aren't too common, but if you do visit, some areas should be avoided at all costs.

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    Visit Ukraine is a service portal where every user can get up-to-date information on entering Ukraine for citizens of 200+ countries, as well as purchase extended war risk insurance, train/bus/plane tickets, branded merchandise and order a safe tour of Ukraine. Currently, we have the largest bank of tours in Ukraine and we plan to expand it!

  5. Useful tips and how to travel to Ukraine (2024)

    1 - Explore one of the greatest cities in Europe. Kiev is an amazing city with loads to see, loads to do and so much going on. I spent two weeks in the capital and they were the best days of my trip. From epic churches to bizarre Soviet places and great nightlife, Kiev is a city which you will want to return to.

  6. Travel Advisory: Ukraine

    Do not travel to Ukraine due to Russia's war against Ukraine. ... If you feel your current location is no longer safe, you should carefully assess the potential risks involved in moving to a different location. ... By U.S. Embassy Kyiv | 23 May, 2023 | Topics: Alert. Suggested for You. Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Ukraine;

  7. Alerts and Messages

    For travel to the United States on a temporary basis, including tourism, temporary employment, study and exchange. ... Remarks by President Biden on Ukraine at Presser - October 4, 2023; Readout of President Biden's Meeting President Zelenskyy of Ukraine; ... U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Ukraine (29 December, 2023) Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kyiv ...

  8. Ukraine travel advice

    Still current at: 22 March 2024 Updated: 22 January 2024 Latest update: The FCDO now advises against all but essential travel to the western regions (oblasts) of Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk ...

  9. Biden visits Kyiv ahead of anniversary of Russia's invasion

    Updated: 02/20/2023 08:24 AM EST. President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Monday, arriving in Ukraine's capital in a show of support for the war-torn nation and statement of ...

  10. Travel advice and advisories for Ukraine

    Your safety is at high risk, particularly if you engage in active combat. If you are in Ukraine, you should shelter in a secure place unless it is safe for you to leave the country. On June 6, 2023, the Kakhovka dam located on the Dnipro River in Kherson Oblast ruptured, leading to major downstream flooding. Many towns and settlements currently ...

  11. Is Kyiv Safe To Visit For Foreigners 2023? Local's Opinions

    I take to the streets of Kyiv to answer an important question for all planning to visit Ukraine's capital during war.

  12. Ukraine travel advisory: is it safe to go now?

    Therefore, both central and western parts of Ukraine are safe enough. People continue to live, work, go to restaurants, movies and various events, and, of course, travel around the country. As for foreigners in Ukraine, according to official statistics from the State Border Guard Service, more than 2.4 million foreigners visited Ukraine in 2023 ...

  13. How to visit Kiev in 4 days

    Things to do. Day 1 - Around Pecherski. Day 2 - Around Shevchenkivskyi. Day 3 - Around Podilski. Day 4 - Get offbeat. Day trips from Kiev. More information. Travel insurance for Ukraine I recommend IATI Insurance: COVID-19 coverage + 5% discount Get your discount when buying through this link.

  14. Is it Safe to Travel to Ukraine? (No, Because of Russia)

    It is not safe to travel to Ukraine in 2024 because of Russia's brutal & illegal invasion. ... If I Google "is Kyiv Safe"? or "what should I watch out for in Kyiv". I get many answers. ... 2023 at 11:47 pm. Just last week Russia launched missile attacks on Lviv. I am not personally there, but I do have Ukrainian friends there.

  15. Foreign Secretary visits Kyiv before Ukraine Recovery Conference

    The Ukraine Recovery Conference will be held in London on 21 to 22 June 2023 and will bring together governments and industry leaders to develop a concerted multi-sector plan to help Ukraine to ...

  16. Is Kyiv Safe to Visit? (and other travel questions)

    The good news is that Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv is located 723 km (450 miles) away from the current fighting between the Ukrainian Government and Pro-Russian insurgents. Kyiv is considered to be safe place to visit, as safe as any major city in the world where you would expect to exercise a degree of caution in your regular activities.

  17. EU commissioners travel to Kyiv: How do you keep politicians safe in a

    As a delegation of EU commissioners travels to Kyiv for the first EU-Ukraine summit of 2023, security experts gave Euronews some insight on how to maximise their safety. Moving a group of ...

  18. What Happens If Russia Takes Out a Western Leader Visiting Ukraine?

    Air raid sirens went off during President Joe Biden's visit to Kyiv in February last ... Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during an unannounced visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, on February 20, 2023.

  19. Joe Biden's surprise visit to Kyiv 'unprecedented in modern times

    Joe Biden's surprise visit to Kyiv 'unprecedented in modern times', says US - as it happened. ... Mon 20 Feb 2023 16.15 EST First published on Mon 20 Feb 2023 00.41 EST. Share. Key events.

  20. Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Ukraine (August 22, 2023)

    For travel to the United States on a temporary basis, including tourism, temporary employment, study and exchange. ... U.S. Embassy Kyiv, Ukraine (August 22, 2023) Location: Uman, ... Those U.S citizens in Ukraine should depart if it is safe to do so using commercial or other privately available ground transportation options.

  21. Trip Report: Ukraine in 2023 : r/solotravel

    Trip Report: Ukraine in 2023. Trip Report. Like I'm sure many of you on this forum I love to plan hypothetical trips when its a slow day at work. Well, a few weeks ago I was looking at things to do in Odesa, a city that's long been on my list to visit. Out of interest I had a look at hotels on booking.com and found that international guests ...

  22. by the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer, Kyiv

    But while the world may have been overly optimistic in 2023, we should not make the same mistake by becoming overly pessimistic in 2024. Pessimists don't win wars. And if you look at the facts: there is every reason to be confident in Ukraine's ability to achieve success. Last night, 31 missiles were fired at this beautiful city.

  23. WORLD BRIEFING: March 22, 2024

    Last's night massive attack on infrastructure came just a day after another on Kyiv just hours after a visit to the city by US national security adviser Jake Sullivan. More than 25,000 people took shelter in the city's metro stations while the attack was ongoing, with videos and images shared on social media showing crowds crammed together ...

  24. EU leaders call for 'immediate humanitarian pause' in Gaza

    The statement also condemns Hamas "in the strongest possible terms for its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023, recognising Israel's right to defend ...

  25. Iceland volcano 2024: Is it safe to travel and is the eruption

    A volcano in Iceland has erupted for the fourth time in three months, with this being the most powerful so far. The eruption began just before 8.30pm local time on Saturday and it is ongoing, but ...

  26. E.U. Finds a Way to Make Russia Pay for Weapons for Ukraine

    Set for approval by E.U. leaders meeting in Brussels on Thursday, the plan could provide Ukraine with up to 3 billion euros, or about $3.25 billion, a year, or as much as 15 billion euros ($16.3 ...

  27. Joe Biden's surprise visit to Kyiv 'unprecedented in modern times

    'For Russia it is total failure': people in Kyiv react to Joe Biden's visit - video Tom Ambrose , Léonie Chao-Fong , Martin Belam and Samantha Lock Mon 20 Feb 2023 16.15 EST First published on ...

  28. Security Alert: Heightened Threat of Missile Attacks, Including in Kyiv

    Depart Ukraine when it is safe to do so. Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible. Review safety and security alerts for U.S. citizens in Ukraine. Have a contingency plan that does not rely on U.S. government assistance. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Kyiv Email: [email protected]; State Department - Consular Affairs

  29. Ukraine Russia war live updates: Kyiv says Russian missiles destroyed

    Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida became the final leader of a Group of Seven country to show support for war-torn Ukraine by traveling to Kyiv, where he met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

  30. Russia-Ukraine war latest: Missiles rain down on Kyiv; Russia 'gearing

    At least 31 missiles were fired at the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv by Russia overnight, according to local officials. A total of 13 people were injured. Elsewhere, the Institute for the Study of War ...