Pressure, confiscations, and militarization: how the Russian Federation is destroying civilian life in the temporarily occupied territories of the Zaporizhzhia region
The temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine received a critically low score—just -1 out of 100—in Freedom House’s annual “Freedom in the World 2026” report.
The Russian regime continues to systematically restrict citizens’ rights and employ repression, forced passportization, and property confiscation. The situation in the occupied part of the Zaporizhzhia region remains among the most dire.
According to the National Resistance Center and human rights defenders, Russian troops regularly seize humanitarian aid intended for the civilian population to use for their own needs.
Residents of towns and villages face overt restrictions on freedom of movement. For instance, in Enerhodar, refusing to cooperate with Russian entities can lead to a person being placed on a travel ban list. The situation in the city is further complicated by constant disruptions to electricity, water, fuel, and mobile network services.
At the same time, the Russians are conducting an “inventory” of property. In Tokmak, inspections of garage cooperatives have begun to identify so-called “ownerless” vehicles, which are slated for transfer to the Russian army. Overall, in Melitopol, the Russians have already designated over 3,000 real estate properties for confiscation.
Utility and economic crisis
Russian administrations are unable to meet the population’s basic utility needs, and attempts by people to defend their rights are met with repression.
Balky village: Residents who had been without electricity and water for nearly two months recorded a video appeal for help. In response, security forces classified the public plea as an “unauthorized rally” and drew up administrative violation reports against the participants.
Melitopol district: A prolonged shortage and quality issues regarding drinking water are being reported in Melitopol. Turquoise and orange-colored liquid flows from the taps, while the upper floors of apartment buildings remain without water supply for weeks.
Agricultural sector: Local farmers are facing the threat of bankruptcy. The cost of diesel fuel has reached 300 rubles per liter, while low purchase prices and the dangers associated with transport make it impossible to sell the harvest. Consequently, some farms are being forced to abandon the harvest altogether.
Militarization and propaganda targeting children
In the temporarily occupied territories of the Zaporizhzhia region, Russian authorities are actively implementing measures to exert ideological influence on youth and children.
In Melitopol, any sports or cultural events (such as races or competitions) are forcibly linked to Russian state holidays or symbols. The Russians have launched the “Memory of Heroes” educational and patriotic program, which trains young people in marksmanship, tourniquet application, and weapons handling.
A network for training UAV operators and recruiting youth into Russian military units is being established at local educational institutions and centers.
Despite immense pressure, repression, and attempts by the Russian authorities to completely isolate the region, the local population is engaging in passive resistance and continuing to document Russian crimes.