Long Queue of Cars at Crimea Bridge – ISW Analyzes Who Is Fleeing the Occupied Peninsula
About 2,450 cars are lined up on the Kerch side of the Crimea Bridge, waiting to leave the occupied peninsula. Meanwhile, electricity restrictions and fuel shortages have been introduced. ISW suggests that Russian tourists, military personnel, and occupation officials are among those leaving.
Tensions are rising in occupied Crimea. As of June 25, a significant queue of approximately 2,450 vehicles has formed on the Kerch side of the Crimea Bridge, with people seeking to leave the peninsula. In contrast, no queue is reported on the Taman entrance side.
Mikhail Razvozhayev, the so-called governor of Sevastopol, announced that fuel reserves are being prioritized for critical sectors such as healthcare and public transport. Sales to civilians via QR codes are expected to resume once sufficient reserves are accumulated. He also acknowledged that electricity cuts have caused water supply disruptions.
The occupation energy company "Krimenergo" has introduced temporary electricity supply restrictions to prevent grid overload.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that among those leaving the peninsula are likely Russian tourists, residents of occupied Crimea, Russian military personnel and security services linked to the Black Sea Fleet, as well as occupation officials. This outflow could have demographic consequences, especially if Ukrainian strikes continue.
"The Telegraph" quotes expert Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, who argues that without control over Crimea, Russia cannot win the war, making Putin's position increasingly unstable. Meanwhile, "The Wall Street Journal" notes that Crimea is turning from a valuable asset into a burden and a weak point that could threaten Russia's ability to continue the war.
