Ham Radio in Ukraine Shut Down in Face of Russian Invasion

An emergency declaration by the government of Ukraine enacted as Russian forces began their invasion in late February included "a ban on the operation of amateur radio transmitters for personal and collective use," according to the ARRL Letter. 

The initial emergency order was issued for a 30-day period on February 24 and could be extended as circumstances require. Nonetheless, CQ has heard reports of amateurs sending out information via Echolink and of Polish hams sending messages to relatives on behalf of Ukrainian refugees who sought shelter in Poland.