Crimea is being turned into a strict regime resort: drones, cameras and mines

In the annexed Crimea, Russian authorities are stepping up control and security measures ahead of the holiday season. The peninsula is massively installing video cameras in the forests, patrolling the coast with drones, and increasing military presence on beaches and coastal areas.

According to Krym.Realii, the upcoming season will be the fifth for Crimea in the context of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. At the same time, the peninsula increasingly resembles a territory with a tighter control regime rather than a resort.

According to the Russian-controlled Ministry of Emergency Situations, starting June 1, rescuers, divers, and patrol groups with special equipment will be working on the coast. In addition, Russian services plan to actively use drones to monitor the Black and Azov Seas, as well as to check small vessels and boat owners' documents.

Control is also being tightened on land. In the Crimean forests, 70 CCTV cameras have already been installed, covering about 70% of the territory. The Russian Emergencies Ministry says that the systems respond to smoke and help to quickly detect fires, some of which are linked to the aftermath of the war and the fall of aircraft debris.

In addition, residents and tourists are warned of possible mobile internet disruptions due to measures to combat Ukrainian drones. Such restrictions are already affecting emergency services and communications.

At the same time, Russian troops are strengthening the defense of the Crimean coast. According to the spokesman for the Southern Defense Forces, Vladislav Voloshin, the Russian army is conducting large-scale mining of beaches and coastal waters, installing anti-tank and anti-personnel mines, as well as wire barriers.

The network also reports the restoration of firing points and observation posts along the coast, in particular near Yevpatoriya and Saky. Armed Russian military personnel are on duty at the positions, monitoring the sea and preparing for possible drone attacks.

Despite the Russian authorities' claims of control over the situation, Crimea is increasingly turning into a militarized territory with constant surveillance and enhanced security measures.

Андрій Колісніченко