Russia’s coal industry crisis brought people to the streets
Residents of the Russian city of Kemerovo rallied and recorded a video message to Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin about the poor quality of coal being sold to them at a regional discount. The situation is absurd, given that Kemerovo is located in Kuzbass, Russia’s main coal region.
People complain that the coal burns poorly and does not provide heat. This is the first such public statement by residents. Meanwhile, regional authorities are no longer trying to pretend the situation is under control and are openly admitting to the “enormous difficulties” faced by coal mining companies.
The Russian coal industry is in a deep crisis due to sanctions imposed as a result of the Kremlin’s decisions. Putin is making a show of demanding that the government take measures to support the industry. However, no measures will be effective as long as the Kremlin prioritizes its war of aggression against Ukraine.
