Crimea Bans Night Rides: Motorcycles 'Sound Like Drones' Amid Escalating Conflict
Crimea Bans Night Rides: Motorcycles 'Sound Like Drones' Amid Escalating Conflict
Moscow-installed authorities in Crimea implement a temporary night ban on motorcycles and scooters, claiming their sound mimics drone attacks amid escalating conflict and existing fuel shortages.
Crimea has enacted a temporary ban on the use of motorized vehicles such as scooters, quad bikes, and motorcycles during nighttime hours. The measure, implemented by Moscow-installed authorities, cites concerns that the noise produced by these vehicles resembles that of drone attacks.
Sergei Aksyonov, the Russian-installed governor of the peninsula, stated that the ban would be in effect from 8 PM to 6 AM, starting Wednesday. He described it as a temporary measure crucial for guarding military and other significant facilities. Oleg Kryuchkov, Aksyonov's advisor, elaborated on Telegram, stating, "The moped noise hampers the work of defence systems. Their engines sound similar (to drones)." He further added a conspiratorial tone, suggesting, "The enemy is recruiting your children for nighttime rides."
This new restriction, which does not apply to cars or larger vehicles, comes as Ukraine has reportedly intensified drone attacks on Crimea. The peninsula, annexed by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, is home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Recent attacks have targeted supply routes, leading to a fuel crisis just as the holiday season commences. Residents in Crimea's biggest city, Sevastopol, were informed by Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev that a limit of 20 liters (5.3 gallons) of fuel per car at local petrol stations would remain in place.
The context of the ban extends beyond Crimea's borders, as recent Ukrainian drone strikes have impacted Russian energy facilities. A strike on Tuesday reportedly halted operations at Moscow's oil refinery, contributing to a deepening fuel crisis across Russia. Overnight, Russian defense systems also reportedly downed 10 drones heading for Moscow. This move by Crimean authorities underscores the heightened state of alert and the unusual measures being taken in response to the ongoing conflict.
