Russian authorities have intensified efforts to seize Ukrainian-owned homes in Mariupol, leaving thousands homeless and fueling accusations of forced displacement and demographic manipulation.
Since Russia’s occupation of Mariupol in May 2022, over 9,000 apartments have been declared abandoned by its administration despite having rightful owners who either fled during conflict or were deported forcibly. Residents report that authorities often disregard documentation demonstrating ownership claims by labeling properties “ownerless” and turning them over to state control.
At present, this situation is compounded by the demolition of over 500 residential buildings, with plans for even more to come down soon. Many residents still living there receive little to no notice before their homes are torn down; new structures springing up quickly on these sites which are then sold off to newcomers from Russia, effectively changing its demographic make-up and shifting population dynamics in Kiev.
Ukrains’ka Pravda (TSN.ua +1), El Pais and TSN all reported similar findings and changes; El Pais reported similar concerns for this city in Ukraine as compared with Moscow;
Local officials and displaced residents alike have expressed frustration over opaque processes and lack of compensation, including long waiting lists for replacement housing or mortgage offers they cannot afford. Furthermore, Russian citizenship requirements complicate matters even further for those unwilling to renounce their Ukrainian heritage in order to qualify for new homes -alitat AP News/uawire.org/El Pais
Human rights organizations have strongly condemned Russia for using bureaucratic means to forcibly displace Ukrainians and repopulate Mariupol with Russian nationals, with many cultural and historical landmarks that symbolize Ukrainian identity being erased as part of an aggressive campaign to subdue Ukrainian culture and history.
As Mariupol’s original residents continue their fight for their homes and heritage, international pressure to address the humanitarian situation unfolding within occupied territories is mounting.
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