From February 19 the Chornobyl zone will be temporarily closed

The official explanation is "due to the technical reasons''. We understand that this is most likely due to the threat of Russian aggression and the proximity of the border with Belarus. Many Ukrainians and foreign tourists, including those staying in Ukraine for personal or work reasons, and journalists have recently visited Chornobyl. Considering all the available information, these people feel safe, being in Kyiv and choosing to travel in the Kyiv region, in particular - to the Chornobyl zone.

Under the current conditions, we totally understand the concern for the safety of Ukrainians and foreign guests. At the same time modern technology allows us to see in real time any movement of armed forces of all parties and respond quickly. And there are no recommendations from the state to leave Kyiv. So we hope that the ban on visiting Chornobyl will soon become a recommendation. This will help normalize the situation, especially since the military drill in Belarus should be finished on February 20.

Now Ukraine, Kyiv and Chornobyl we recieve the attention of international media, which are spreading information about the mood of Ukrainians and the situation in the country. In the modern hybrid information war, Chornobyl tourism can become an important channel for disseminating information about the combat capability of the Ukrainian army, its resolute readiness to repel any invader and security of stay in our country. They perceive Chornobyl tourism in the territory bordering Belarus as one of the significant markers of Ukraine's stability.

We respect the decision of the authorities to take care of the country's security. And we hope that in the near future the Chornobyl zone will be opened to representatives of the international community, Ukrainians and the media, who feel safe under the protection of the Armed Forces in our country.