Ukraine: Missile strikes and explosions reported in multiple regions, including Kyiv, Feb. 16

Event

Ukrainian officials have reported Russian missile attacks targeting multiple regions, including in Kyiv, Feb. 16. Air-raid sirens continue to sound across various areas and authorities pre-emptively introduced power cuts to protect the electricity network. Authorities report that 32 Russian missiles were fired at critical infrastructure targets in Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Kyiv, Lviv, and Poltava regions, and that 16 missiles were shot down. The local governer reported one civilian death in Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk Region. The extent of the damage is not yet known. Further strikes are likely.

Air strikes typically target 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.

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.