Russian-backed Crimea head says fortifications still under construction

Sergey Aksyonov, the Moscow-appointed head of Crimea, said Friday that Russia’s plans to build defense fortifications in the annexed region are still in effect, adding that local authorities are taking an “unconventional” and “asymmetrical” approach to the construction process due to all of their “experience with armed hostilities.”

“Better safe than sorry,” said Aksyonov. “And I always say, if you want peace, prepare for war. So it’s better for us to be ready. Crimeans and all other Russians can sleep soundly in this regard.”

The Russian-backed Crimean authorities first announced plans to build fortifications on the peninsula in February. Other sources, including from the Ukrainian military and Western intelligence agencies, reported in fall 2022 that construction had begun.