Ukraine: Emergency response ongoing in Brovary, Kyiv, following helicopter crash Jan. 18

Event

Emergency crews are responding to a helicopter crash in Brovary, an eastern suburb of Kyiv, on Jan. 18. Officials state the helicopter crashed near a kindergarten early on Jan. 18, killing at least 16 people, including seven bystanders. At least 22 further individuals have been reported injured thus far. The Minister of Internal Affairs, Denys Monastyrskyi, and several senior ministry officials were aboard the helicopter at the time of the crash. The cause of the crash remains unclear, but Ukrainian air defense systems were not active at the time, and visibility was reportedly poor due to fog.

Transport and business disruptions are likely in the area over the coming hours as officials complete their investigation and clear the area.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Allow additional time to reach your destination if operating near the affected area. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.