Russia's Invasion of Ukraine: Essential Information for Travelers

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine today, flight routes across Europe have been altered. An Israeli El Al Boeing 787 from Tel Aviv to Toronto was seen diverting from Ukrainian airspace, rerouting over Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland, as reported by the Associated Press.

The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has strongly advised American citizens against traveling to Ukraine. Those already in the country are urged to “leave immediately using commercial or private transport due to the heightened risk of Russian military actions.” The State Department has shared a list of recommended border crossings, highlighting specific locations in Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Moldova.

Travelers should ensure they carry identification, verify that all travel documents are current, stay updated with local and international news, and fill out an online form to facilitate communication with the State Department. Today, the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv tweeted that anyone in Ukraine who hears loud explosions or sirens should seek shelter immediately if they find themselves under attack.

Numerous countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and others, are urging their citizens to evacuate as soon as possible, if feasible.

Both Ukraine and Russia are under “Level 4: Do not travel” advisories from the U.S. State Department due to the ongoing conflict, a status previously attributed to COVID-19. Currently, only two other nations have Level 4 warnings concerning “unusual and troubling Russian military actions near Ukraine”: Moldova and Belarus. Moldova has closed its airspace to civilian flights, while Belarus has prohibited flights in its southern region.

This situation is still evolving, and updates will be provided as new information emerges.

Reporting contributed by the Associated Press.