Ukraine Evacuates Institutions After Receiving Terror Threats

Dozens of schools, businesses, embassies and media outlets in Ukraine were evacuated on October 14 after receiving threatening emails claiming explosive devices had been planted at these locations. The emails, sent by a person claiming to represent a terrorist group, mentioned journalists Iryna Sysak, Valeria Yehoshyna and Yulia Khymeryk, whose investigative report exposed Russian intelligence recruiting Ukrainians for arson attacks.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry reported 60 diplomatic missions abroad received the threats, with some suspending consular services. National Police inspected over 60% of targeted locations but found no explosives. The group's Telegram channel promotes arson attacks and offers payment for harming Ukrainian military personnel.

The Security Service of Ukraine views the mass emails as an operation to spread public panic. RFE/RL President Stephen Capus pledged cooperation with authorities, stating, “We will not be intimidated and stand behind our reporters.”