Orientation briefing in Ukraine

Ukraine was the center of the first eastern Slavic state, Kyivan Rus, which was the largest and most powerful state in Europe during the 10th and 11th centuries. Weakened by internecine quarrels and Mongol invasions, Kyivan Rus was incorporated into the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and eventually into the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The cultural and religious legacy of Kyivan Rus laid the foundation for Ukrainian nationalism. A new Ukrainian state, the Cossack Hetmanate, was established during the mid-17th century after an uprising against the Poles. Despite continuous Muscovite pressure, the Hetmanate managed to remain autonomous for well over 100 years. During the latter part of the 18th century, the Russian Empire absorbed most Ukrainian territory. After czarist Russia collapsed in 1917, Ukraine -- which has long been known as the region's "bread basket" for its agricultural production -- achieved a short-lived period of independence (1917-20), but the country was reconquered and endured a Soviet rule that engineered two famines (1921-22 and 1932-33) in which over eight million died. In World War II, German and Soviet armies were responsible for seven to eight million more deaths. In 1986, a sudden power surge during a reactor-systems test at Ukraine's Chernobyl power station triggered the worst nuclear disaster in history, releasing massive amounts of radioactive material. Although Ukraine overwhelmingly voted for independence in 1991 as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) dissolved, democracy and prosperity remained elusive, with the legacy of state control, patronage politics, and endemic corruption stalling efforts at economic reform, privatization, and civil liberties.

In 2004 and 2005, a mass protest dubbed the "Orange Revolution" forced the authorities to overturn a presidential election and allow a new internationally monitored vote that swept into power a reformist slate under Viktor YUSHCHENKO. Rival Viktor YANUKOVYCH became prime minister in 2006 and was elected president in 2010. In 2012, Ukraine held legislative elections that Western observers widely criticized as corrupt. In 2013, YANUKOVYCH backtracked on a trade and cooperation agreement with the EU -- in favor of closer economic ties with Russia -- and then used force against protestors who supported the agreement, leading to a three-month protestor occupation of Kyiv's central square. The government's use of violence to break up the protest camp in 2014 led to multiple deaths, international condemnation, a failed political deal, and the president's abrupt departure for Russia. Pro-West President Petro POROSHENKO took office later that year; Volodymyr ZELENSKYY succeeded him in 2019.

Shortly after YANUKOVYCH's departure in 2014, Russian President Vladimir PUTIN ordered the invasion of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula. In response, the UN passed a resolution confirming Ukraine's sovereignty and independence. In mid-2014, Russia began an armed conflict in two of Ukraine's eastern provinces. International efforts to end the conflict failed, and by 2022, more than 14,000 civilians were killed or wounded. On 24 February 2022, Russia escalated the conflict by invading the country on several fronts, in what has become the largest conventional military attack on a sovereign state in Europe since World War II. Russia made substantial gains in the early weeks of the invasion but underestimated Ukrainian resolve and combat capabilities. Despite Ukrainian resistance, Russia has laid claim to four Ukrainian oblasts -- Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia -- although none is fully under Russian control. The international community has not recognized the annexations. The invasion has also created Europe's largest refugee crisis since World War II, with over six million Ukrainian refugees recorded globally. It remains one of the two largest displacement crises worldwide (the other is the conflict in Syria). President ZELENSKYY has focused on boosting Ukrainian identity to unite the country behind the goals of ending the war through reclaiming territory and advancing Ukraine’s candidacy for EU membership. 

A state of emergency, put in place by the Government of Ukraine in February 2022, remains in effect, and martial law is in force throughout Ukraine.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel 

Crimea  

FCDO advises against all travel to Crimea.

Border with Belarus  

FCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the border with Belarus in the following regions: 

• Volyn 

• Rivne 

• Zhytomyr 

This is due to the ongoing presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel on the Belarusian side of the border. 

All other regions of Ukraine 

FCDO advises against all travel to all other regions of Ukraine (with the exception of some Western regions; see below).

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the following regions in western Ukraine: 

All parts: 

• Zakarpattia  
• Ivano-Frankivsk 
• Ternopil 
• Chernivtsi 
• Lviv 

Parts further than 50km from the border with Belarus:

(see Border with Belarus above)

• Volyn 
• Rivne 
• Zhytomyr

Russian invasion of Ukraine

Russia continues to invade Ukraine. Russian missile and drone attacks take place frequently across the country. Attacks have killed and injured civilians and caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure, including residential, energy, industrial, rail and other related facilities. Russian military activity has intensified over the past year. Civilian casualties between January and August 2026 exceeded the total recorded in 2025.

There is an ongoing risk of harm to British nationals from Russian attacks across Ukraine, including from missiles and drones that hit unintended targets or from falling debris. While these are more frequent where FCDO advises against all travel, they can and do also happen in the western regions, where FCDO advises against all but essential travel. 

British nationals should exercise heightened awareness and be prepared to take shelter immediately when an air alert is announced. Be extra vigilant whilst travelling in urban centres. 

Russian missile and drone attacks have struck government and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, including public buildings, energy facilities, transport hubs, other critical infrastructure, residential areas and defence industrial sites. Conferences and events attended by the Ukrainian government and military are more likely to be targeted. 

Follow the advice of local authorities, including responding to air raid alerts and train evacuation instructions. Be prepared to seek shelter immediately and remain there for extended periods. 

Russian attacks on the energy network may result in unscheduled blackouts or emergency power cuts with little notice. Rolling scheduled blackouts may be required in some areas. Electricity outages may also affect district heating and water supplies. Be aware that temperatures may drop below -20°C during winter. 

Ukraine’s airspace remains closed. 

The situation in Ukraine can change quickly. Local rules and measures may change at short notice or without notification. FCDO cannot confirm that all information on this page reflects the latest situation in Ukraine.

Support from the UK government   

We continue to advise British nationals in regions where FCDO advises against all travel, to leave these areas, if they judge it safe to do so.

The British Embassy in Kyiv is unable to help you in person. FCDO cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine or your evacuation.

If you are in Ukraine

Martial law is in place. Follow the instructions of the Ukrainian authorities and check any measures in place in your location, as they will vary by region.

If you are in Ukraine, you should:

• monitor local media for updates about security risks in your area
• identify shelter locations in advance of any air alert
• immediately take shelter if an air alert is announced
• follow the directions of Ukrainian officials and first responders in the event of an emergency
• take precautions including conserving water, food, and mobile phone charge and having warm clothing/sleeping bags to hand, and monitor local media for updates, including on power cut schedules
• pay close attention to your personal security
• avoid demonstrations and public gatherings
• take extra care while moving around
• know what curfews are in place

There are a number of air raid alert apps available, including “Air Alert”.

Get travel advice updates

Monitor travel advice regularly. Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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See FCDO advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.

Leaving Ukraine

Expect increased documentation checks, transport restrictions and increased security measures. Other measures could include additional border controls, restrictions on public events, curfews, restrictions on telephones, internet and broadcasting, and evacuations of certain areas.

For information about leaving Ukraine by car, see Transport information and risks.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

If you are a dual British-Ukrainian national or you have the right to reside in the UK, and want to leave Ukraine, contact the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine on [email protected] for advice.

Ukrainian national and dual-national males aged 23 to 60 are prohibited from leaving the country. Dual-nationals have to comply to the same military conscription laws as Ukrainian mono-nationals.

Even if you do not consider Ukrainian to be your primary nationality, the Ukrainian authorities may see you as a Ukrainian national: for example, if you have a Ukrainian parent, or if you were born in Ukraine.

For any information regarding nationality issues, you would need to seek advice from local authorities or legal experts.

The authorities in the countries bordering Ukraine set and enforce their entry rules. Before you travel, check the foreign travel advice for any countries you plan to travel through. If you need assistance from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in that country.

Assisted departure or evacuation

If you are in Ukraine against FCDO advice, or need support to leave Ukraine, take advice from a private security company and take appropriate security measures.

FCDO cannot endorse or recommend any private security companies. Research whether a service provider will be suitable for your requirements and meets code of conduct and safety standards. The Security in Complex Environments Group (SCEG) has several companies listed on their website. These companies have accredited certification for international standards.

FCDO has not completed due diligence checks on these companies. FCDO does not accept any liability arising to any person for any loss or damage suffered through using these service providers or this information. FCDO is not able to provide financial assistance for employing private security or medical evacuation companies.

British nationals fighting in Ukraine

If you travel to Ukraine to fight, or to assist others engaged in the war, your activities may amount to offences under UK legislation.  You could be prosecuted on your return to the UK.

Since 18 May 2024, British nationals who join the Armed Forces of Ukraine have to serve at least six months and are not allowed to leave Ukraine during this period.

British nationals fighting in Ukraine have been killed or captured. British nationals undertaking humanitarian work have also been detained by Russian authorities. The risk to life, or of maltreatment, is high.

The British Government’s ability to support you in these circumstances is very limited. It cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine, your medical repatriation, or termination of your military contract. Find out more about FCDO consular assistance.

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel despite FCDO advice, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice 

The FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Ukraine

Terrorist attacks in Ukraine cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

A state of emergency, put in place by the Government of Ukraine in February 2022, remains in effect, and martial law is in force throughout Ukraine.

Unexploded weapons

There is a hazard from unexploded weapons throughout Ukraine, but particularly in the South and East of the country along the current conflict frontlines, and in areas where ground fighting occurred (particularly since 2022). Drone and missile strikes occur frequently across Ukraine and can deposit unexploded weapons in public areas. This includes cluster munitions, which scatter round the landing site and can cause delayed explosions. Flooding in the Kherson Oblast, following the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in June 2023, spread unexploded weapons across the region.

If you come across an unexploded weapon, such as a landmine, do not approach it or touch it. Make a note of where you saw it and notify the authorities on 101. Beware of more unexploded weapons nearby.

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

Explosions continue to be reported near the area of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant indicating ongoing military activity. There have been no reports of any radiation release.

Crime

Before the full-scale invasion, serious crime against foreigners was relatively rare, but incidents did occur, with some cases being racially motivated.

If you are a victim of crime, report it to the police by calling 102. FCDO has a list of local translators in Ukraine. We cannot confirm whether these translators are still offering services during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Protecting your belongings

Be alert to the possibility of street crime and petty theft. Foreigners may appear to be lucrative targets.

Theft of and from vehicles is common. Do not leave documents or money in your vehicle.

Drink and food spiking

Do not leave drinks or food unattended as they could be spiked. Beware of accepting drinks from casual acquaintances.

Scams

Cloning of credit and debit cards is common. Be aware of who is around you when using ATMs and do not let your card out of your sight during transactions.

Cyber attacks

Ukraine is a target for large cyber-attacks which disrupt basic services and risk data security, including personal data.  In March 2025, a large-scale attack targeted Ukraine’s national railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia, impacting ticket purchasing.

In December 2023, there was a high-impact cyber attack on Ukrainian networks. Ukraine’s largest mobile network operator, Kyivstar, suffered a cyber attack which left users without a mobile signal or the ability to use the internet. It also disrupted air raid apps, some banks, ATMs, and point-of-sale terminals. The Ukrainian bank Monobank was also targeted, disrupting access to the bank’s website.

Laws and cultural differences

Language

Ukrainian officials generally only speak Ukrainian and Russian.

Personal ID

Carry your passport at all times to use as identification and to demonstrate your legal status in Ukraine if asked by the police. Police should identify themselves and show identification. If you’re detained because you have not been able to present your passport, ask for an official report.

Access to money

ATMs are available and credit cards are widely used in cities. However, as a result of the current invasion of Ukraine by Russia, ATMs might not be refilled with cash and some bank cards might not be accepted. During power cuts, ATMs and card terminals may not work.

Make sure you have sufficient cash in local currency. US dollars and euros are the easiest currencies to exchange in Ukraine. You may be able to exchange sterling, but in fewer places. Scottish and Northern Irish notes are not accepted. Only use official exchange booths and make sure you’re given a receipt. You’ll need to present your passport to exchange currency worth 150,000 Ukrainian hryvnia or more. You’ll need the receipt to exchange money back on departure.

There is a risk that cyber attacks could disrupt mobile, internet and banking services.

Alcohol and smoking

It is illegal to smoke or drink alcohol in public places, including on public transport, at bus stops, underground crossings, cultural, sports and governmental establishments, playgrounds and parks.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Penalties for being caught in possession of drugs are severe.

Using cameras in secure areas

Do not take photographs near government or military establishments.

LGBT+ travellers

Although same-sex relationships are not illegal, public attitudes are less tolerant than in the UK and showing affection in public may receive negative attention. There’s no provision under Ukrainian legislation guaranteeing freedom from discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Surrogacy

Due to the security challenges across all of Ukraine, we must currently advise against commissioning any surrogacy arrangements there. Further information about surrogacy overseas can be found here.

Commissioning a surrogacy will not automatically mean that the child holds British citizenship. If you want to bring your child born through surrogacy from Ukraine to the UK, you must apply for a full British passport.

The FCDO cannot facilitate your departure from Ukraine.

If you are considering changing your surrogacy arrangements, or making a new arrangement with a Ukrainian woman in another country, check surrogacy advice for that country also.

Transport information and risks

Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, expect disruption to travel and transport networks. Only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. We cannot confirm which services are operating. Where possible, check before travelling.

Taxis

Unregulated taxi drivers can overcharge. Use official taxis, which have the name and telephone number of the taxi company on the side of the door and on the top of the taxi.

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Ukraine, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC’s Ukraine guide.

You must have a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) as well as your UK driving licence to drive in Ukraine. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. 

You need to carry a green card to drive in Ukraine. A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad. 

You must carry original vehicle registration papers, ownership documents and insurance papers at all times. You must show them when crossing borders and if you are stopped by the police. This also applies to rental vehicles. If you do not have these papers when stopped by the police they have the right to impound your vehicle and charge you for this.

Car hire 

If you intend to rent a vehicle for your travel in Ukraine, check with the car hire company and insurance company about their policy on renting cars in Ukraine and any other country you will pass through, especially non-EU countries. Ensure they provide you with a rental agreement permitting you to cross the Ukrainian border.

Driving standards

Roads are of variable quality and routes may be affected by the ongoing invasion. Avoid night-time travel wherever possible.

Local driving standards are poor. Street lights are weak and road users often ignore speed limits, traffic lights and road signs. Drivers frequently make turns and change lane without indicating.  There are a high number of traffic accidents, including fatalities. Speeding, drink driving and infrequent use of helmets, seat belts and child restraints in vehicles are the main contributing factors.

If you have a road accident, you must wait for the police to assess the accident. Call the police on 102. Local officials generally only speak Ukrainian and Russian.

Driving regulations

It is illegal to drive with any alcohol content in your blood.

Police can stop vehicles and give fines for minor offences such as illegal parking or jumping a red light. They may carry a credit card terminal to collect payment on the spot, or fines can be paid online or at a bank within 15 days. See payment options (in Ukrainian). The police officer should give their name and rank, explain why you have been stopped and make an administrative offence report. The police may film interactions with members of the public.

Leaving Ukraine by car

You can leave Ukraine by car through most border crossing points, but Ukraine’s border crossings with Russia and Belarus are closed to regular traffic.

There could be long queues at the border crossing points with EU member states and Moldova. Have a good supply of food, water, warm clothing, medication and fuel.

The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGSU) website has a map showing the border crossing locations. The State Customs Service lists waiting times at border crossing points.

At the border crossing, the SBGSU will check:

• car registration documents
• the insurance documents for the vehicle (green card)

For more information see the SBGSU website or call the SBGSU hotline on 1598 from a Ukrainian mobile.

If you leave the country in a vehicle registered in the UK, which you temporarily imported to Ukraine, you will have to provide your import customs declaration when leaving.

You may need additional documents. For further information on leaving Ukraine by car, contact the State Customs Service of Ukraine (site in Ukrainian).

Rail travel

If you travel by train, make sure your belongings are secure. Do not agree to look after the luggage of a fellow traveller or allow it to be stored in your compartment.

Air travel

Ukraine’s air space is closed.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

Floods can cause travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from Ukraine’s Hydrometeorological Center before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.

This section has safety advice for regions of Ukraine. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Crimea and eastern Ukraine   

FCDO advises against all travel to all regions in eastern Ukraine, including any Ukrainian territories which are temporarily under Russian control. FCDO is not able to provide in-person assistance to anyone in these regions.

Border with Belarus   

FCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the border with Belarus in the regions of: 

• Volyn 
• Rivne 
• Zhytomyr 

This is due to the ongoing presence of Russian and Belarusian military and security personnel on the Belarusian side of the border.

All other regions of Ukraine 

FCDO advises against all travel to all other regions of Ukraine except for specific regions of western Ukraine (see below). This includes any areas temporarily under Russian control such as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions.

Western regions

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the regions of:

• Zakarpattia
• Ivano-Frankivsk
• Ternopil
• Chernivtsi
• Lviv
• Volyn
• Rivne
• Zhytomyr

In the event of attacks, follow the advice of the local authorities, including responding to air raid sirens.

To enter or exit Crimea

In theory foreign nationals need to provide their passport and a special permit issued by the territorial body of the State Migration Service of Ukraine. However, due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, it is not currently possible for foreign nationals to enter or exit Crimea.

The Crimean sea ports of Kerch, Sevastopol, Feodosia, Yalta and Yevpatoria have been designated by the Ukrainian authorities as closed to international shipping.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 103 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Ukraine
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Pharmacies

Due to the ongoing invasion, some supply chains are interrupted, and some medical products are hard to come by. Information on which pharmacies are operational is provided by local authorities and pharmacy networks.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Health operates a hotline at +380 (0)800 60 20 19 to coordinate access to insulin and other critical medicines for those who need it. The service Tabletki.ua (site in Ukrainian) is continuing to operate and tries to maintain hourly updates about availability of medicines nationwide.

Pharmacies may close without notice. Maintain a stock of essential medication. Pharmacies in smaller towns may not have the same variety of medications available in the bigger cities. Pharmacies are usually easily identifiable by the presence of a green cross or the word ‘apteka’ (аптека). Some stronger medications require a prescription from a doctor, written in Ukrainian.

Healthcare in Ukraine

FCDO has a list of healthcare providers in Ukraine. Due to the ongoing invasion, we cannot confirm that all these providers are operating.

State medical facilities in Ukraine are generally poor. Private clinics and hospitals offer a better standard of care, though these do not always meet western standards and practices. If you require emergency medical treatment, it is likely that you will be taken to a state hospital unless you can show that you have comprehensive medical insurance cover.

English is not widely spoken and you may face communication difficulties if you do not speak Ukrainian.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.