Ukraine: Multiple explosions reported in Sumy and Dnipropetrovsk regions Oct. 17 /update 1

Event

Russian missile, drone, and rocket attacks have targeted multiple areas in central and northern Ukraine Oct. 17 following earlier attacks in Kyiv. In the Sumy Region, at least three Russian rockets struck as yet undisclosed civilian infrastructure in Romny, killing three people and injuring nine others. A localized power outage has also been reported. Energy infrastructure was also targeted in the Dnipropetrovsk and Odesa regions early Oct. 17; no casualties were reported, and details regarding impacted targets have not been released. Additionally, the Nikopol District in the Dnipropetrovsk Region was targeted by Russian artillery and rocket fire overnight on Oct. 16-17.

Earlier, at least five explosions took place in Kyiv. At least one blast occurred in Shevchenkivskyi District, striking a residential building; at least three people have been confirmed dead. According to officials, the attacks were carried out by Shahed-136 kamikaze drones and also targeted energy infrastructure. Authorities may update casualty figures over the coming hours.

Further aerial attacks are likely. Emergency services will respond to the incidents once air-raid alarms have ceased. Heightened security will be deployed, and travel and business disruptions are likely to continue.

Advice

Avoid travel to active conflict zones in the Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions of Ukraine; consider leaving these areas by available ground transport if safe to do so. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Ukraine. Shelter in place if there is fighting or airstrikes in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls if officials report incoming rocket or artillery fire. Follow the instructions of local security personnel, especially when instructed to seek refuge in air raid shelters. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Due to the threat of unexploded ordnance, avoid off-road travel. Travel on well-used routes only. Do not approach suspected unexploded ordnance. In areas previously occupied by Russian forces, be aware of booby traps.