As to official message of Ministry of Forein Affairs of Ukraine,  Russia’s ongoing full-scale military aggression against Ukraine poses real threats to people’s lives and safety, makes it impossible to guarantee the safety of foreign citizens on the territory of Ukraine.

In view of the above, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine urges Hasidic pilgrims to refrain from this year’s pilgrimage to Uman as part of the celebration of Rosh Hashanah.

If a decision is made to visit Uman contrary to these warnings, the following should be taken into account. Ukraine has introduced the legal regime of martial law which provides for a number of additional regulations, including restrictions on freedom of movement, a curfew and enhanced patrols, a ban on holding mass events and gatherings, as well as the application of coercive measures against persons who will not comply with the established restrictions.

Other circumstances that may complicate the stay of pilgrims in Ukraine and which should also be taken into account when planning trips:

• the lack of a sufficient number of civil defense premises to shelter pilgrims in places of their accommodation in the city of Uman;
• the congestion of land transport links with Ukraine and possible significant delays in rail traffic due to the massive shelling targeting transport infrastructure objects and facilities;
• the lack of a sufficient number of medical personnel and medical institutions in Uman to provide proper medical care for pilgrims;
• the possibility of introducing additional regulations for the entry (online registration) and stay of Hasidic pilgrims in Ukraine.

Strict rules will be imposed to ensure pilgrims’ safety during their stay in Uman:

• Mass public events are prohibited (please do not create mass gatherings)
• The Pilgrimage area will be cordoned off. Those who wish to enter will undergo security checks using metal detectors, similar to airport security procedures. There might be lines to pass through these checkpoints.
• Arms and explosive devices are prohibited
• Fireworks are prohibited
• Fence in the direction of transport to the pilgrimage zone
• The sale of alcohol is prohibited
• It is prohibited to sell pyrotechnic devices, pneumatic arms, knives, and toy arms.

PLEASE NOTE that you MUST carry a valid ID (Passport) whenever you are outside on the streets or visiting public places.

PLEASE NOTE that the military curfew PROHIBITS staying outside or at public places from 12 am to 4 am.

This prohibition is lifted in case of running for shelter during air raid signals. Those violating the curfew will have to pay a fine and will face mandatory deportation. They will also be barred from entering Ukraine for 3 years.

PLEASE NOTE that movement through the territory of Ukraine during the “Curfew” period from 00:00 at night to 04:00 in the morning is prohibited.

The movement of vehicles that are not accompanied by vehicles of the Patrol Police or the State Security Service may be restricted.

For your convenience, consider the relevant restrictions when planning your trip.