Kremlin-backed authorities in annexed Crimea declared a state of emergency on Friday afternoon following days of intense Ukrainian attacks that have knocked out power in parts of the peninsula and compounded ongoing challenges for residents, including fuel shortages and restrictions on public transit.
“This state of emergency will remain in effect until the situation improves,” Sevastopol Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev said in a Telegram video address announcing a citywide state of emergency.
Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-appointed governor of Crimea, posted his own video declaring a regionwide state of emergency, emphasizing the economic rationale behind the move.
“This approach should simplify and streamline the process of property damage claims,” Aksyonov said.
Razvozhayev said the state of emergency will allow local business owners to invoke force majeure clauses and enable residents to seek financial compensation for electrical equipment damaged as a result of rolling blackouts.
