In a new controversial development, Russian authorities in temporarily occupied Luhansk Oblast are shifting the burden of responsibility for repairing destroyed apartment buildings onto the residents. From 2027, residents of multi-storey buildings in this region will be mandated to pay fees for major repairs as the authorities draft a "legislative framework" to support this initiative. The plan is justified by the claim that 85% of over 12,000 apartment blocks in the oblast require significant repairs, which the local administration attributes to the ongoing hostilities and subsequent neglect.

The National Resistance Center (NRC) reports that the Russian occupying authorities are framing these fees as a routine practice necessary for restoring the housing stock in Luhansk. This move has been met with criticism, as many view it as an attempt by Russia to evade accountability for the destruction that has occurred during the conflict. The situation is further complicated by the ongoing war, where many residents face dire economic conditions, making it challenging to afford additional financial burdens related to housing repairs.

This initiative signals a potential shift in the Russian government's approach to managing occupied territories, prioritizing their legislative measures to exert control and minimize their perceived liability for the damage inflicted during military operations. This can lead to increased tensions between local residents and occupying authorities, as the measures may be seen as unjust and exploitative.