Ukraine, which became the epicenter of the war, at the same time attracted the attention of foreign tourists who want to see the consequences of Russian aggression with their own eyes. This phenomenon has been called "black tourism" and causes a lot of controversy.
According to the Swiss publication Sarganserländer , about a dozen Ukrainian companies organize so-called "military tours". The cost of such excursions varies from 150 to 250 euros, and part of the profits are directed to support the army. The main focus is on Kyiv and its suburbs, such as Irpin, where the destruction is still a reminder of the war's hottest moments.
Tours to combat zones attract not only thrill seekers, but also those who want to better understand the tragedy of war.
"It's not about money, it's about education. Our tours are a kind of vaccine that can prevent the recurrence of war," says Svetozar Moiseev, co-founder of one of the tour companies.
However, not all participants of such tours treat it ethically. For example, in July 2024, the American Nick Tan went to Kharkiv, located only 20 kilometers from the front. "I just wanted to see it," he said, stressing that life in the West is too comfortable. His comments are causing astonishment among local residents who are forced to live in constant danger.
"Recently, a drone crashed just 300 meters from my house. It's hard for me to understand why someone voluntarily wants to see this," says Ruslan Savchuk, a resident of Irpen.
Local residents perceive "black tourism" ambiguously. Some support the tours, believing it draws attention to the war, while others question the morality of such visits. A deputy of the local council of Irpenia Mykhailyna Skoryk-Shkarivska recalls that some Ukrainians ask tourists: "Why do you want to see our sadness?"
The head of the National Tourism Development Agency Maryana Oleskiv also draws attention to the need for an ethical approach to military tourism. The agency plans to launch special courses for tour guides who will work on similar tours.
Despite the decline in tourist flows due to the war, the Ukrainian industry is already preparing for the post-war period. Contracts are concluded with such international platforms as Airbnb and TripAdvisor, which may open up new opportunities for attracting foreigners.
