Ukraine: Heightened security in Kiev for Eurovision May 9-13

Event

The city of Kiev is preparing for tens of thousands of visitors ahead of Eurovision Song Contest 2017, scheduled to take place May 9-13. The semifinal rounds will take place on May 9 and 11 and the grand final will be held on Saturday, May 13. The event will take place in Kiev's Maidan Square with fan zones set up around the city. After the withdrawal of Russia from the competition, a total of 42 countries will participate in the contest.

Organizers say 16,000 police, military, and emergency personnel will be on duty in Kiev for the competition in an effort to maintain security and "show the world [Ukraine is] a peaceful nation," according to Kiev's mayor, despite the ongoing conflict with Russia in eastern parts of the country. Severe transportation disruptions associated with heightened security measures should be anticipated in the days preceding and during the event.

Context

Ukraine has attempted to create closer ties with the EU since its new government formed in 2014 after the ouster of former President Viktor Yanukovych. Russia is suspicious of closer relations between Kiev and the EU and currently backs separatist rebels who are fighting the Ukrainian government. Ukraine is still affected by a weak economy and endemic corruption, which will likely prevent the country from becoming a full EU member in the near future.

The Heavenly Hundred Heroes, who are honored in memorials near the location of the Eurovision event stage, were protesters killed in the Euromaidan mass protests. The Euromaidan movement took place in February 2014 in and around Maidan square and resulted in the ouster of then-president Viktor Yanukovych. Some celebratory events in 2016 turned violent when crowds targeted Russian businesses, such as banks and diplomatic missions.

Advice

Individuals in Ukraine, particularly in Kiev, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate heightened security measures and transportation delays, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities. Remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or individuals to authorities.

On a separate note, due to ongoing fighting between government forces and pro-Russian rebels in the east of the country, a number of Western governments advise against travel to Donetsk and Luhansk provinces (Donbass), as well as areas along the Russian border.