Ukraine Country Report

Ukraine is an EXTREME RISK country. The ongoing conflict following Russia's invasion poses the greatest threat to travellers. For anyone planning essential travel to Ukraine, having comprehensive travel insurance is critical. Hotspot Cover provides specialised insurance for high-risk regions like Ukraine, ensuring you're covered for medical emergencies, evacuations, and other crisis situations.

Essential Precautions:

• Avoid travelling through unlit areas or travelling alone at night, especially in Kyiv
• Avoid all travel to Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk
• Keep track of your belongings as pickpockets are common in urban centres
• Do not display obvious signs of wealth
• Avoid demonstrations and protests
• Use ATMs only during daylight hours and inside large facilities like banks

Due to the ongoing conflict, travelling to Ukraine presents significant risks. Without the right insurance, you may face serious difficulties obtaining medical care, evacuation services, or assistance during crises. Always consult up-to-date travel advisories from reliable sources like the UK Foreign Office or U.S. State Department before planning your trip.

Political Situation

Ukraine's political situation remains heavily influenced by the ongoing conflict with Russia, with active hostilities primarily concentrated in the eastern regions. Efforts for peace continue through international mediation, though tensions persist, as seen in criticism of unilateral discussions involving Russia and Hungary without Ukraine's participation. Domestically, Ukraine is working to maintain stability through governance reforms and anti-corruption measures while navigating the challenges posed by the conflict. Internationally, shifting policies, particularly from the U.S., may impact the security environment. Travellers should be cautious due to military operations, avoid conflict zones, and remain informed about potential unrest or changes in travel advisories.

Crime and Security Risk

All non-essential travel to Ukraine is discouraged due to ongoing conflict and heightened security risks. Foreign nationals are most at risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing, particularly in tourist areas. Violent crime, including armed robbery, remains a threat, and there are millions of illegal weapons circulating throughout the country. Political demonstrations may escalate quickly, posing a serious danger to travellers. Corruption within Ukraine's security forces is widespread. Ensure that your insurance policy covers unexpected incidents related to crime or civil unrest.

Medical & Health Risks

Ukraine's healthcare infrastructure has been severely affected by the conflict, with limited resources and outdated equipment. Public clinics, especially outside major cities, lack basic supplies. If you fall ill or are injured, emergency services may be slow to respond. Comprehensive medical insurance, including evacuation and repatriation, is vital. Infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis are present, particularly in the southern and eastern regions. Travellers should also ensure their policy covers emergency medical evacuation if local facilities are inadequate.

Environmental Risks

Extreme winter weather conditions are common in Ukraine, with ice and heavy snowfall significantly increasing the risk of road accidents. Your travel insurance should include coverage for disruptions due to severe weather and hazardous conditions. Radiation levels near Chernobyl should be monitored, but visits to the exclusion zone are generally controlled.

Transport & Infrastructure Risks

Ukraine's infrastructure, especially roads, has suffered due to the conflict. Roads are in poor condition outside major cities, with limited lighting and reckless local driving norms exacerbating the risks. Travel insurance should cover delays, accidents, and the need for alternative transport, as public transport is unreliable and potentially unsafe. The Kyiv metro is a target for pickpockets and bag-snatchers. Additionally, frequent power outages, particularly in winter, can affect telecommunications and transport.

Conflict in Crimead

The situation in Crimea remains politically sensitive due to Russia's annexation. Travellers should avoid any unauthorised crossing into Crimea, as insurance policies may not be valid in disputed regions.

Travel Restrictions

Due to the conflict, insurance policies must account for potential travel restrictions and provide coverage for disruption or emergency evacuation. There are often checkpoints in place near conflict zones and along the border with Russia.
Overall, travel to Ukraine is extremely dangerous and is strongly discouraged for non-essential reasons. For those who must visit, ensuring your travel insurance policy includes extensive coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and crisis management is critical.

Choosing the Right Cover for Your Trip to Ukraine

Due to the high-risk nature of Ukraine, many insurers exclude coverage for travel to this country. Hotspot Cover provides specialised policies that include medical expenses, emergency evacuations, repatriation, crisis management, and kidnap for ransom cover.

Required Vaccinations:

• None

Pre-Trip Checklist:

• Carry a copy of your passport.
• Bring an adequate supply of prescription medication
• Bring a copy of your prescription in case medication is lost or stolen.
• Pack warm clothing if travelling during the winter months

LGBT Travel Advice for Ukraine

Ukraine has made some progress in LGBTQ+ rights compared to neighbouring countries, but discrimination and societal stigma still exist. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially outside major cities. LGBTQ+ travellers should ensure their insurance policy covers any potential issues they may face during their visit.