An interview with Olha Kuryško, the Permanent Representative of the President of Ukraine in Crimea, discusses the dire state of Crimea under Russian occupation, highlighting the collapse of civil healthcare and the increase in political oppression since 2014.
In commemoration of the 12th anniversary of the annexation of Crimea by Russia, an interview features Olha Kuryško, who serves as the Permanent Representative of Ukraine's President in Crimea. She provides an overview of the current situation in Crimea, detailing how the health care system has been extensively repurposed for military uses since the invasion in 2014. Hospitals, once serving civilians, are now primarily military hospitals, showcasing the extent of the transformation in the region.
Kuryško elaborates on the severe issues that have emerged in Crimea, including significant fuel shortages and restrictions imposed by the occupying authorities on fuel stations. The private sector has nearly disappeared, with most economic projects now solely funded through the federal budget. This structural change speaks volumes about the economic implications of annexation and Russia's attempt to integrate Crimea into its military and political framework.
Moreover, the repression that has characterized the occupation continues unabated, with the number of political prisoners gradually increasing. New provisions in administrative and criminal codes have been implemented, further stifling dissent and eliminating free media within the peninsula. These developments reflect the broader implications of Russia's control over Crimea, signifying not only a humanitarian crisis but also a challenge to international law and regional stability.
