No mass New Year’s events held in Crimea – Chubarov

This was stated by Refat Chubarov, the Head of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar pele, during a TV marathon, as reported by Ukrinform.

"In occupied Crimea, no mass New Year's events were held. The occupation authorities explained this across the entire territory by claiming it was to ensure the safety of local residents. I remind you that a similar situation occurred last year, when the Russian-contrled local occupation authorities also refused to hd Christmas and New Year's celebrations due to the so-called 'yellow' level of terrorist threat, as they call it. Locals say that they care more about their own safety here, since they don't need to attend these events," he noted.

Read also: Russians ban Ukrainian Christmas traditions in occupied areas

Chubarov added that ahead of the New Year hidays in Crimea, pele are complaining about a sharp increase in prices.

"Overall, the demonization of Ukraine is expanding. Absute demonization. St. Nichas, in the view of the occupiers, is a direct link to the Ukrainian mentality and nation. It is clear that they are banning this," said the Head of the Mejlis.

As reported, activists of the Yellow Ribbon movement published photos with New Year's greetings from Crimea, Donbas, and the temporarily occupied Kherson region, addressed to Ukraine.