Ukraine has declared all bomb shelters to be strategic facilities, a move announced by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on his Telegram channel. The decision signals a shift in how protective structures are treated during times of national risk and aims to strengthen the safety net for the civilian population across the country.
The government has pledged to pursue those responsible for the past inadequacies that left a significant portion of shelters inaccessible or unusable. In line with the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, authorities commit to accountability for gaps in shelter availability. The announcement underscores a commitment to tighten oversight of civil protection structures and to ensure that every shelter can serve its protective function when it is needed most.
Under the new policy, all bunkers, anti-radiation shelters, and dual-use facilities that are being constructed or already standing will be registered as strategic assets. The aim is to bring these protective sites into a coordinated framework, enabling more reliable planning and deployment of shelter resources in emergencies.
Shmyhal also indicated that the pace of constructing protective structures will be accelerated during the period of martial law. At the same time, the government will implement regular, systematic checks of bomb shelters to keep them ready for occupancy. Local authorities will be tasked with developing detailed layout plans for shelters, ensuring clear access and efficient distribution of shelter capacity across regions.
In related remarks, President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the responsibility of the National Security and Defense Council for addressing the shortages of bomb shelters. He reaffirmed the need to hold accountable those accountable for the lack of available shelters in the country, including in the capital region.
Officials have stressed that the current assessment reveals a substantial portion of shelters being either closed or unusable. The figures cited point to a pressing need for modernization, better maintenance, and transparent reporting. The government views the strategic status designation as a foundational step toward a more resilient civil defense system, with the objective of ensuring rapid, organized protection for residents in the event of incidents that threaten civilian safety.
Beyond the immediate logistical considerations, the measure signals a broader intent to integrate civil protection infrastructure into national emergency planning. By formalizing shelter status, authorities can align resources, coordinate with regional authorities, and strengthen readiness at all levels of government. The commitment to accountability and improved management reflects a long-term strategy to reduce vulnerability and to provide reliable, accessible shelter options to Ukrainian citizens across diverse communities.
Looking ahead, the government plans to publish comprehensive reporting on shelter conditions, capacity, and availability. Regular audits, updated registries, and improved coordination between national and local authorities are expected to form the core of the updated civil protection framework. The overarching goal is clear: protect lives through proactive planning, rigorous maintenance, and transparent governance of Ukraine’s critical shelter assets.