Racially Motivated Attacks in Ukraine - US Embassy Kyiv Warden Message - January 5, 2007

On December 28, 2006, a citizen of Gambia was stabbed to death in the Solomenskiy District of Kyiv. This incident is the latest in a string of murders of foreigners in Kyiv in 2006 in which the victim’s race and/or skin color appears to have been a primary motivation. Although none of these murders has involved United States citizens, there have been several non-lethal assaults in Ukraine in recent years against U.S. citizens which were determined to be racially motivated. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv would like to remind American citizens resident in Ukraine of the following information contained in the Consular Information Sheet for Ukraine (available on-line at http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1053.html):

While most travelers do not encounter problems with crime in Ukraine, there has been an increase in the number of racially-motivated attacks conducted by "skinheads" in Kyiv.  These incidents, in which non-Caucasian foreigners are specifically targeted for violence, have occurred without provocation in prominent areas of downtown Kyiv that are commonly frequented by tourists.  While the majority of people targeted have been of Asian, African or other non-European descent, all travelers should exercise caution.  In addition to incidents of assault, persons of African or Asian heritage may be subject to various types of harassment, such as being stopped on the street by both civilians and law enforcement officials.

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.  For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov.

American citizens are encouraged to report any security incidents or problems to the Embassy. American Citizens Services unit can be reached during working hours by calling at (38-044) 490-4445 or 490-4422. The Embassy’s duty officer can be reached after hours at (38-044) 490-4000 or by contacting (38-050) 311-1796.