Ukraine: Missile strikes and explosions reported in multiple regions, including Kyiv, Dec. 16 /update 1

Event

Ukrainian officials have reported Russian missile attacks targeting multiple regions in central, south, and east Ukraine, Dec. 16, including in Kyiv. Reports indicate at least three explosions occurred in Kyiv. Other cities, including Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Kharkiv, Poltava, Vinnytsia, and Zaporizhzhia, were struck.

Officials stated that over 60 missiles had been fired at targets nationwide, including an estimated 40 at Kyiv. Authorities reported that two civilians died in Kryvyi Rih. Emergency power outages are ongoing across the country. In Kyiv, the water supply remains interrupted. Ukrzaliznytsia, the state railway operator, announced that there are delays on some lines. Further missile strikes are possible.

The air strikes targeted energy and infrastructure facilities; further electricity and water supply interruptions are likely. Heightened security will be deployed, and travel and business disruptions are likely to continue.

Context

Ukrainian authorities report that this is the seventh "mass missile strike" by Russia, targeting the nation's civilian infrastructure, since Oct. 10.

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.