Cinema chains in Ukraine are revising their operating rules under air-raid alerts: with the introduction of a two-tier alert system, cultural institutions will be able to continue screenings even when a 'yellow' level is declared. RBC-Ukraine reported this on September 10, 2026, citing exclusive comments from the press offices of the Multiplex and 'Oscar' chains, obtained via Instagram. An updated course of action has been introduced for visitors and staff, and the procedure for refunding tickets when a screening is interrupted now depends on the specific alert level.
How Multiplex cinemas will operate
Multiplex's press office clarified that screenings during a 'yellow' alert will continue, although the operating regulations may differ at individual venues. This is influenced by two factors: the requirements of local authorities and the internal rules of the specific shopping mall where the cinema is located. As a result, the chain has no single nationwide standard — viewers are advised to check the current operating mode on the website or app of the specific cinema before purchasing a ticket.
The position of the 'Oscar' chain and other market players
The Kyiv-based 'Oscar' cinema chain stated that it will operate in strict accordance with the operating rules of the shopping malls where its halls are located. This means that if a mall is closed due to an alert, the cinema will also suspend operations. RBC-Ukraine sent a query to the press office of the 'Planeta Kino' chain, but as of the time of publication no response had been received, so the operating conditions of this chain remain unconfirmed.
Procedure for refunding tickets when a screening is interrupted
The key innovation is a differentiated refund policy. If a screening is fully cancelled due to a 'red' alert, viewers will be able to receive a ticket refund in the form of promo codes for a future screening. In cases where a screening is interrupted due to a 'yellow' alert, the right to a refund is granted to those visitors who actually left the hall. This decision is intended to minimize financial losses for both the chain and viewers, while maintaining flexibility in a rapidly changing operational situation.
Context: the two-tier air-raid alert system
Recall that Ukraine has introduced 'yellow' and 'red' air-raid alert levels in response to continuous Russian attacks by jet-powered drones. A 'yellow' alert is declared in the event of a threat from unmanned aerial vehicles, while a 'red' alert is issued during mass strikes and a missile threat. It is precisely this differentiation that allows cinemas and shopping malls to maintain partial operations under less dangerous conditions without exposing visitors to critical risk. Some shopping malls in Kyiv have already established their own operating rules during alerts, and the cinemas located within them comply with the general regulations.
What this means for viewers
For cinema audiences, the practical takeaway is simple: during a 'yellow' alert, screenings will most likely take place, but with possible restrictions and an updated course of action when the sirens sound. When buying a ticket, it is worth bearing in mind that a refund is not always available and not always in cash form if a screening is interrupted. The chains recommend following the official channels of the chosen cinemas, as the rules may be adjusted depending on the region and the specific venue.
