Despite regular attacks by Ukraine, the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula is attempting to regain itself as a tourist destination as war rages close by. The territory, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014, continues to attract bathers to Black Sea beaches like the ones in Alushta.
Despite Frequent Attacks, Vacationers Flock To Beaches In Russian-Occupied Crimea
Tourists enjoy the sights along the beach at Alushta, located on the Crimean Peninsula's southern coastline. The peninsula, which is internationally recognized as Ukrainian territory, has been occupied by Russia since its illegal annexation and takeover in 2014.
Bathers gather along the beach at Alushta undetered by recent strikes on local infrastructure. On July 6, an explosion at a gas distribution hub near Alushta sparked a massive fire, cutting off the gas supply to nearby villages. Ukraine regularly carries out strikes against Russian occupying forces along the peninsula.
A paddleboarder heads to the beach under dark skies.
The diamond-shaped peninsula, which was once a favorite vacation spot for Russian czars and hosted historic summits of world leaders, is struggling to attract tourists to its beaches.
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Kyiv has vowed to restore control of its territory and has targeted key Russian military and naval installations in occupied Crimea.
Traveler numbers have decreased since strikes like this one on June 23, when Russian forces intercepted a U.S.-made Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) aimed for a missile launcher in Crimea. The falling debris killed six people and injured more than 150.
Ukrainian drones and air strikes against Russian assets such as the nearby Black Sea Fleet have also contributed to the low numbers of visitors.
A sign warns swimmers that rescue services are not provided.
A woman climbs up to the aging boardwalk.
Russian President Vladimir Putin was forced to evacuate his warships to the relative safety of Novorossiysk following the relentless Ukrainian attacks.
In addition to steadily depleting Russia’s defensive capacities, Kyiv is intent on isolating Crimea by targeting the Kremlin’s logistical connections to the occupied peninsula.
The Kerch Bridge links Russia with occupied Crimea. The 19-kilometer span was opened in 2018 and serves as an important supply route for Russian forces occupying parts of southern Ukraine.
However, the apparent ease with which Ukraine has been able to hit Russian air defenses and logistical hubs throughout Crimea has led some analysts to suggest its destruction is only a matter of time.
The Alushta bus station's doors are decorated with advertising seeking fresh recruits for the Russian military.
Despite the possibility of drone and air strikes, life continues for both residents and tourists as Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its 30th month.