Russia is preparing strikes on Kyiv: is it safe to stay in the capital, and what do tourists need to know?

Russia is once again threatening to attack Kyiv in an attempt to sow panic following setbacks on the front line. The capital is prepared for any challenges: the air defence system is operational, and diplomats remain at their posts. Find out how safe it is to be in the city right now

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Russian threats to intensify large-scale attacks on the Ukrainian capital have sent shockwaves through the media. In a statement issued by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 25 May, so-called ‘systemic strikes’ against military-industrial complex facilities in Kyiv were announced. Later, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov clarified that such attacks would not necessarily be daily, adding that Moscow had no information regarding the US response to these warnings.

Despite the latest escalation of tensions, the Ukrainian capital continues to live, work and welcome foreign visitors, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt to any challenge.

The situation in Kyiv today: what the authorities and residents are preparing for

Kyiv is a city that has already endured the most gruelling phases of Russian terror. The capital has weathered prolonged power cuts, critical shortages of heating and water during the winter months, as well as regular combined attacks involving missiles and kamikaze drones.

The city’s infrastructure is fully adapted to emergencies: most commercial premises, hotels and government buildings are equipped with powerful generators and autonomous water supply systems. The experience of recent years has enabled the development of clear protocols for countering any man-made or military threats, so new statements from the enemy do not cause panic among the population.

Should you leave Kyiv? The official position of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine

The Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, Ihor Klymenko, commented on the question of a possible evacuation from the capital. Responding to a question about whether Kyiv residents should leave the city in light of new threats, the minister highlighted the resilience and determination of the capital’s residents.

“We are, perhaps, simply rephrasing a statement made six months ago. If Kyiv residents did not leave a few months ago, then they probably won’t leave now either,” emphasised Ihor Klymenko.

The authorities’ official position remains unchanged: the city is fully under the control of Ukrainian forces, and law enforcement agencies and emergency services are operating on high alert.

Further confirmation of the stable situation comes from the international community’s stance — European diplomats have officially announced that they have no intention of leaving Kyiv, ignoring Russian recommendations and ‘warnings’.

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Strikes on Kyiv: a real threat or psychological pressure?

Analysts and military experts agree that the Russian Federation’s public statements are distinctly manipulative in nature. Serhiy (Flash) Beskrestnov, a communications systems specialist and adviser to the Ukrainian Minister of Defence, notes that Moscow’s current threats are largely provoked by serious problems facing the Russian army on the front line.

Given that the warning was issued at an official level, the possibility of attacks cannot be completely ruled out; however, this action is primarily aimed at exerting powerful psychological pressure on the civilian population and foreign partners. Kyiv’s air defence remains one of the densest and most effective in the world today, successfully intercepting the vast majority of aerial targets despite a shortage of some missiles.

Safety in Kyiv for foreigners: key guidelines for tourists

For foreign nationals visiting Kyiv for business or volunteering purposes, risks remain manageable provided basic safety protocols are strictly followed. Whilst in the city, please observe the following rules:

❗️ React immediately to air raid sirens. When an alert is sounded, proceed immediately to the nearest shelter. The Kyiv Metro remains the most reliable shelter in the city; stationary underground car parks and equipped bomb shelters are also available in all districts.

❗️ Use official sources of information. Up-to-date information on threats and the functioning of infrastructure is published in the ‘Kyiv Digital’ app, as well as on the official channels of the Ukrainian Air Force and the Kyiv City Military Administration (KCMA).

❗️ Observe the curfew. Moving around the city at night is strictly prohibited, which must be taken into account when planning logistics and travel to the capital.

Insurance in Ukraine covering military risks

As standard international policies do not cover losses resulting from hostilities, specialised medical insurance is a mandatory requirement for safe entry into and stay in the country. You can arrange such a policy remotely.

The Visit Ukraine portal offers specialised insurance programmes for foreigners, which include cover for both standard medical expenses and specific military risks.

It takes just a few minutes to arrange a policy, and the electronic document is fully legally valid throughout Ukraine. You can choose the best rate directly on the Visit Ukraine website.

Please note! Ukraine’s borders are open to foreign nationals despite the full-scale invasion, but those wishing to visit the country must be aware of a number of current rules regarding entry and safe stay. Find out more about border crossing rules and insurance in Ukraine during the war.

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