Attacks on the energy sector have made life in occupied Crimea unbearable — The New York Times
In the temporarily occupied Crimea, power supply problems have worsened due to attacks on energy infrastructure. In some areas of the peninsula, power outages last for extended periods, forcing local residents to seek out generators and other alternative power sources. The New York Times reported on the consequences of these energy problems.
The attacks on the peninsula’s power grid were a response to Russia’s long-standing strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. According to the publication, the aim of these actions was to increase pressure on the Kremlin. An intensive operation against energy facilities in Crimea began in June. The main targets were facilities near Russian military bases in the north of the peninsula.
By the end of July, major cities and villages in northern Crimea were experiencing prolonged power outages. The power outages caused water pumps to shut down, and some areas faced water supply issues. As a result of Ukrainian strikes, the homes of 1.4 million Crimean residents were reportedly left without electricity for one week, the publication claims, citing a Russian diplomat.
According to an analysis of satellite imagery conducted by Meduza, in early July, the level of nighttime lighting on the peninsula dropped to less than 20% of its usual level. Crimean residents say they are trying to purchase generators, solar panels, and inverters. Some people have also begun considering leaving the peninsula.
According to media reports, the most serious problems have arisen in northern Crimea. In particular, in Dzhankoy, power outages reportedly lasted 15 days following strikes on two power substations. At the same time, the effects of the power outages were also felt in the central regions of the peninsula: in some places, stores and the train station were closed, and signs announcing power outages appeared on the doors of businesses.
The occupying authorities in Crimea did not disclose the full extent of the outages, merely reporting that they were working to resolve the issue. Russian authorities also offered compensation to residents who were without electricity for more than 48 hours.
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