Washington Names a Ukrainian City It Is Urging People to Avoid at This Time
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of the most meaningful holidays on the Hebrew calendar, and for many Hasidim Uman holds special significance. The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has therefore urged American citizens to avoid traveling there for the 2026 observance. The advisory cites possible threats, especially Russian attacks and a shortage of shelters. The U.S. State Department currently lists Ukraine at Level 4 — 'Do Not Travel' — based on these hazards:
- full-scale warfare
- Russian missile and drone strikes
- martial law in Ukraine
In Uman, where thousands of pilgrims come each year to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, shelters are too few to accommodate all visitors simultaneously in the event of an air raid. Russia's armed forces have previously launched strikes against Ukrainian civilian and critical infrastructure, and residential and religious buildings in Uman have been damaged in such attacks. The festival dates for Rosh Hashanah in 2026 are September 11 through 13; Hasidic communities will be ushering in the Hebrew year 5787.
Security Arrangements for the Holiday
Tighter security measures will be in effect in Uman from September 4 through September 17. Special rules will govern entry into and exit from the city, as well as movement within it. Reinforced checkpoints and control posts will operate at Uman's approaches and near the pilgrimage zone. Law enforcement officers will inspect documents and luggage of those coming into the city. Some pilgrims have not dropped their plans to visit Uman even after the full-scale war started, underscoring how determined they are to preserve their rituals.
Every year Uman hosts thousands of Hasidim for Rosh Hashanah, making the town a vital hub for Jewish pilgrims. Nevertheless, because of the current risks, the U.S. Embassy gave Americans a stark warning about visiting the region. The article was published on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 12:20 p.m.
This warning from the U.S. Embassy reflects the severity of conditions in Ukraine, especially regarding mass assemblies such as the Rosh Hashanah gatherings in Uman.
Such an advisory could affect how many pilgrims decide to come, which in turn could have economic and social consequences for the local community. Given the ongoing threats, Ukrainian authorities' response to maintaining safety during the holiday will be important in preventing possible incidents.