Russian Forces Enforce 15-Kilometer Exclusion Zone Along Dnipro River, Displacing Locals

As of August 1, 2024, Russian occupation forces have implemented a “special regime” along a 15-kilometer stretch of the Dnipro River. This new regulation, announced earlier, restricts access to the zone without a pass issued by the occupying administration.

According to the Center for National Resistance (CNS), entry into this area will be forbidden without the necessary permit. As of September 1, those within the zone without proper authorization may face yet unclarified consequences.

The majority of the local population has been forcibly displaced from this area. The imposition of this exclusion zone effectively amounts to a form of deportation, with only those holding special permits allowed to remain.

The primary motive behind this measure is to control information about the movements of Russian military forces, which had previously been reported by local residents. The occupation forces aim to prevent the leakage of sensitive data through these restrictions.

The CNS reports that despite these efforts, local residents, who remain largely resistant to Russian control, are continuing to seek liberation and are engaged in activities to hasten this process.

In addition to these measures, Russian forces in the Zaporizhzhia region are enforcing strict surveillance, demanding reports on individuals who photograph members of the so-called “people’s militia.” This militia is often seen patrolling occupied towns.

Recent reports indicate that Russian forces are also confiscating electronic devices from locals to curb communication and prevent the dissemination of information about their troop losses.