For many years I've wanted to do some hiking or mountain biking in the mountains of western Ukraine (Zakarpatska Oblast - the safest one at the moment). First, the Covid-19 pandemic threw wrench into my plans, then the war. But I'd really like to go there this spring/summer, if possible. Of course, the short answer is "forget about it, don't travel there". That's what governments of just about all countries (incl. mine) advise to their citizens. But I'm looking here for a longer, more nuanced answer. Here are several points that I'd like to get clarified:
Will I be admitted into the country? I'm an EU national, fully vaccinated against Covid (last dose in December 2021), and I know I have to buy Ukrainian travel insurance (can be bought very cheaply on VisitUkraine.today). However, entering Ukraine with my mountain bike, I'm afraid I'll stand out of the crowd, because I guess not many leisure travellers enter Ukraine these days. Could I be refused entry?
Are trains in the west of Ukraine reliable? I plan to travel from Chop to Sianky (Uzhok pass) and spend some time in the mountains near the border with Poland and Slovakia. According to the online sources, the trains do operate there. Should I expect disruptions (e.g. due to power shortages) or any other problems? On a side note, can I pay for the train ticket in Chop (a major station) using a foreign credit card?
If stopped by the Ukrainian police (I've read it happens a lot these days), is there a chance of them getting unfriendly if they find out I'm just a tourist wandering around with no business to do in Ukraine? Will I be viewed as a nuisance?