In the Zaporozhye region, authorities are intensifying efforts to deter a planned referendum and have begun a coordinated operation to locate and secure the ballot materials. A senior figure in regional governance, Vladimir Rogov, who leads the movement “We are with Russia,” spoke to DEA News about the unfolding situation, outlining the measures being taken to safeguard the local process.
Rogov indicated that Ukrainian militants have reportedly targeted the offices associated with the humanitarian and volunteer mission that supports the “We are with Russia” initiative. He described these actions as an attempt to disrupt the initiative and hinder the organization of the referendum. According to him, the movement operates a central hub that serves as its administrative and logistical backbone in the region, and authorities have declared a pursuit to dismantle this network and ensure the referendum proceeds as scheduled.
He added that council members had not yet approved or printed the ballot papers, highlighting concerns about potential interference aimed at destabilizing the humanitarian operations in the area. The statements point to a broader context where security tensions are mounting and symbolism tied to the referendum is amplified by external pressures and the risk of fresh humanitarian crises during this sensitive period.
Earlier reports noted significant disruptions in the region, with communities like Energodar, Melitopol, and Berdyansk experiencing outages affecting water supply and communications. These disturbances compound the challenges facing residents and organizations involved in relief and civic processes, underscoring the fragile conditions in parts of the territory amid ongoing conflict and political contention.
Prior to these developments, Energodar officials reported an attack on the city administration building described as carried out with a kamikaze drone. The incident is cited as part of a pattern of aggressive acts aimed at local governance facilities and critical infrastructure, raising concerns about safety, civil administration, and the ability of authorities to maintain basic services during tense times.