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- Panic in Russia as residents sell up and flee war torn island (irishstar.com)
Crimea, once a beloved vacation destination for Russians, is now experiencing a mass exodus as residents flee the escalating conflict. The picturesque peninsula, long cherished as a holiday haven, has transformed into a war zone, prompting many, including those who recently purchased property, to seek an escape.
For generations, Crimea has been a popular getaway for Russians, both during and after the Soviet era. Its strategic importance also made it a favored retreat for Russian leaders, including Vladimir Putin, who frequently enjoyed the opulent state residence at the Crimean complex.
In 2014, Putin’s annexation of Crimea ignited a wave of Russian nationalism. The Kremlin swiftly crafted historical and religious narratives to justify the takeover, with Putin asserting that the peninsula held “a sacred and civilisational” significance for Russia. He cited its historical role as the site where Vladimir the Great, the ancient Prince of Kyiv, baptized his people into Christianity, and claimed the peninsula had always been “an integral part of Russia,” unjustly separated after the Soviet Union’s dissolution.
Following the annexation, Russians flocked to Crimea, eager to buy property in what they saw as their new vacation paradise. However, the region was rapidly militarized and has since become a frequent target of Ukrainian missile and drone attacks, causing widespread destruction.
Real estate professionals report a significant shift, with over half of the new Russian property owners now attempting to sell or lease their apartments. “Residents from Siberia, the Urals, even Moscow suburbs increasingly contact us asking to sell or rent out their property,” a Crimean realtor shared with OBOZ.
“Neither they nor their children can endure constant air raid alarms, let alone explosions. Some told me their children start to panic.”
The prevalence of military bases along the Southern Coast of Crimea has also become a source of irritation for residents.
Compounding the challenges, the ongoing conflict has worsened job scarcity, and the few available positions offer wages significantly lower than those found in Moscow.
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- Panic in Russia as residents sell up and flee war torn island (irishstar.com)