Strict energy conservation, ‘special’ curfew, and severe frosts: what foreigners should know before travelling to Ukraine this winter

Winter in Ukraine is marked by an energy crisis, extreme cold, and constant security threats. Foreigners planning a trip should understand how power and water outages work, whether there is a curfew, whether it is safe to travel at night, and where to seek help in an emergency. Find out what you need to be prepared for before travelling to Ukraine this winter

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The winter of 2026 has been one of the most difficult for Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war. Severe frosts, power shortages and constant air attacks from Russia are significantly affecting everyday life in the country. Foreigners planning to travel to Ukraine during this period should understand the real situation in advance and prepare accordingly.

Power cuts in Ukraine: what you need to know

Strict electricity conservation measures are in effect throughout Ukraine. In a number of regions, the country has effectively switched to emergency power cuts. According to the latest information from energy companies, the usual schedules no longer reflect reality: whereas previously power cuts of more than four hours were considered emergency, Ukraine is now experiencing 4.5–5 hours of power cuts at a time.

This means that power outages can be prolonged and unpredictable. The maximum intervals of ‘7 hours without power / 3.5 hours with power’ are no longer relevant. Under conditions of five stages, power cuts can last more than 16 hours in a row. The situation varies from region to region and even from district to district within the same city.

Foreigners should be aware that electricity may be unavailable for most of the day, and mobile communications and the internet may be unstable during such periods. When planning a trip, it is important to consider alternative power sources, accommodation with a generator, and travel routes in advance.

In wartime, medical and insurance protection play an additional role. The Visit Ukraine portal offers insurance for foreigners that covers military risks, taking into account the realities of staying in the country during hostilities and emergencies.

Power and water outages in Kyiv

The situation in Kyiv is even more complicated. The capital is in a state of emergency power outages. Due to the electricity shortage, hot water is also being cut off en masse in homes — the centralised supply is directly dependent on the power supply.

In addition, there may be disruptions to public transport in Kyiv: trams, trolleybuses and, to some extent, the metro. Service intervals are increasing, and during power cuts, some routes are temporarily out of service. This is especially important for foreigners who rely on public transport as their main means of transportation.

When choosing accommodation in Kyiv, it is recommended to check in advance for the availability of a generator, autonomous heating, and a backup water supply. It is also worth having a supply of cash, as terminals and ATMs may be unavailable during prolonged outages.

Curfew in Kyiv

The Ukrainian capital has an updated curfew approved by the Kyiv Defence Council. The curfew itself has not been cancelled, but important exceptions have been introduced to make staying in the city at night more flexible and humane.

During curfew, it is now permitted to travel on foot or by private transport, including taxis, to get home or to ‘Points of Invincibility’. This rule also applies to cases where a train or bus arrives late at night.

For foreigners, the key point remains the mandatory availability of documents. When on the street, you must always have your passport or other identity document with you. This requirement does not apply even in an emergency. Document checks continue at night, and security remains a priority for the city authorities.

Resilience centres operate around the clock

In Kyiv and other cities of Ukraine, resilience centres have been switched to round-the-clock operation. These include both municipal locations and responsible businesses — cafes, restaurants, and public spaces that are ready to provide heat, light, water, communication, and hot drinks.

The city emphasises that such points must be fully functional, not just formally marked on a map. Their work is under constant control, with regular checks on accessibility and conditions. For foreigners, this is an important element of safety — a place where they can warm up, charge their gadgets and receive basic assistance in an emergency.

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Is it possible to take a taxi at night?

In the context of war, energy crisis and severe frosts, Kyiv has taken an unprecedented step. Taxi travel is permitted around the clock, including during curfew, but only for critical needs.

The Ukrainian service Uklon has resumed night-time operations with the consent of the city authorities, citing the president's public appeal and the new rules. A similar decision was confirmed by the Bolt service. The companies emphasise that night-time taxis are not for entertainment, but a tool for survival in extreme conditions.

At night, trips to ‘points of invincibility,’ hospitals, railway stations, places with light and communication, as well as for the delivery of medicines and essential goods are permitted. Foreigners should use this opportunity responsibly and be prepared to present documents upon request.

❗️ On Visit Ukraine, you can order a transfer, book tickets and a hotel room.

Frosts continue to complicate the situation in Ukraine

Severe frosts, which have been persisting in Ukraine for several weeks, are significantly complicating the restoration of energy infrastructure. Low temperatures slow down repair work, and emergency crews have to work in extremely difficult conditions.

The additional load on the power system due to heating exacerbates the electricity shortage. This directly affects the duration of power outages and increases the risk of new accidents, especially in residential buildings.

Shelling of Ukraine and risks to infrastructure

Russia has intensified its air attacks on Ukraine against the backdrop of severe frosts. The main targets remain energy, rail links and civilian infrastructure. Massive drone and missile attacks continue, including on Kyiv.

Foreigners are strongly advised to plan their actions in advance in case of an air raid alert: identify the nearest shelter, know the location of ‘points of invincibility’ and constantly monitor official announcements from the authorities.

In such conditions, it is especially important to have valid insurance. The Visit Ukraine portal offers insurance for foreigners with coverage for military risks, which helps you feel protected even in an unstable situation and provides support in unforeseen circumstances.

Reminder! Crossing the border between Ukraine and Slovakia has become more convenient for pedestrians. A separate lane has been launched on one of the key routes, which is already actively used by travellers and residents of border regions. Find out at which checkpoint the pedestrian crossing has been opened and how it works now.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

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