On February 23, 2023, an explosion at a disused gas station in Mykolaiv injured seven police officers during a shift change. This incident, occurring at 6:10 p.m. local time, has raised significant concerns among Ukrainian law enforcement. Two of the injured officers are reported to be in critical condition, intensifying the urgency of the situation.

Ivan Vyhivskyi, the chief of Ukraine's National Police, linked this explosion to a terrorist attack that happened just the previous day in Lviv, where police officers were targeted. This connection has led authorities to view the Mykolaiv incident as a deliberate attempt by enemies of the state to undermine law enforcement and instill fear among those protecting the public. Vyhivskyi stated that these attacks aim to disrupt the stability and safety of Ukraine as it navigates complex and dangerous times.

The ongoing attacks on police officers represent a troubling escalation in efforts to destabilize Ukraine amid existing tensions in the region. Ivan Klymenko, the Minister of Internal Affairs, emphasized the need for vigilance and resilience in the face of these threats, reaffirming the government's commitment to upholding law and order despite the increasing dangers faced by law enforcement personnel. This situation reflects the broader context of security challenges in Ukraine and the continuing threat of terrorism.