The DESS recommended holding religious services online in the event of an airborne threat

The State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience (GESS) has issued new guidelines for religious organizations regarding the conduct of religious services under a yellow-level air threat. The agency urges religious communities to prioritize online broadcasts to minimize risks to worshippers.

The new rules were developed by based on Resolution No. 1092 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated September 4, 2026. According to the document, if a religious facility lacks an equipped shelter, communities are permitted to hold services in consultation with the congregation; however, this period is limited to three months, during which protective structures must be provided.

The official guidelines emphasize that event organizers are required to inform parishioners in advance about the procedure to follow in the event of an alarm and the location of the nearest shelters. Routes to shelters must be clearly marked with signs, and evacuation routes must be inspected regularly. Those in charge must also be equipped with communication devices to receive notifications promptly.

Special attention is given to safety measures when an air raid alert is declared. When sirens sound, organizers are required to immediately halt the service and direct people to a shelter, where prayer may continue if conditions permit. If the threat level rises to red, the event must be halted completely. In addition, there is a strict ban on posting photos and videos on social media until the event is over, which is intended to ensure the safety of participants.

As a reminder, earlier, in the run-up to Easter 2026, the Kyiv authorities appealed to the leaders of religious communities to limit the holding of mass Easter services and to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, online broadcasts of services from places of worship due to the increased risk of enemy attacks.