Crimea faces deepening despair as isolation campaign hits economy

A sense of despair is deepening in Crimea as Ukraine's campaign to isolate the peninsula reportedly cripples the local economy, leaving residents questioning how they will survive. Local accounts suggest that many businesses are facing severe financial strain, leading to delayed payments and forced unpaid leave for employees.

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How should people act now, forced to go on unpaid leave and not receiving wages for two months?

Reports circulating online, particularly in comments on posts by Crimea's Moscow-appointed governor, Sergey Aksyonov, detail widespread difficulties. Business owners are complaining about the collapse of the tourism season this year, a crucial source of income for the region. This economic downturn is forcing many to consider drastic measures, with some employees being asked to submit resignation letters.

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Yesterday, at work, we were asked to write requests to leave our jobs of our own free will. How are people supposed to survive in the current conditions, when more and more businesses are closing down?

Amidst the growing crisis, Aksyonov declared a state of emergency in Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. He stated that this measure would facilitate the swift resolution of tasks related to ensuring the stable operation of all sectors. However, this declaration has been followed by numerous reports of delayed salaries, layoffs, and other pressing issues faced by local entrepreneurs.

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People have lost their jobs, where will they pay utility bills, and what about loans and mortgages?

Residents express their anxieties about making ends meet, paying utility bills, and servicing loans and mortgages without income. The situation is particularly dire for those in transportation and other sectors that have seen their business practically halt. The lack of work and significantly reduced income have left many families struggling to cope with basic living expenses.

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The flow of light vehicles we service has significantly decreased due to the complex fuel situation. Work has practically stopped... We do not want to close our business or declare bankruptcy simply because we lack the funds to pay taxes and salaries.