Ukraine: Drone strikes reported in Kyiv Dec. 19

Event

Ukrainian officials have reported a Russian drone attack in the capital Kyiv Dec. 19. Authorities state air defense systems shot down 18 of 23 drones, but explosions were reported in the central Solomianskyi and Shevchenkivskyi districts. Drone strikes were also reported in the southern city of Mykolaiv Dec. 18-19.

The attacks damaged energy infrastructure in the city resulting in emergency power outages and water supply disruptions in some areas. Media reports also state residential buildings were damaged and two civilians injured in the attack.

Context

Moscow has regularly targeted civilian infrastructure in air, missile, and drone attacks in recent months. Further attacks are likely and as the capital, Kyiv is a likely primary target in any future attacks.

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.