In the temporarily occupied city of Melitopol, everything is expensive: food, healthcare, clothing, entertainment. Only those who have managed to align themselves with the new „authorities“ can afford the goods and services that were once accessible to the majority of local residents.
When it comes to food products, few people shop at the Russian supermarket chain „Mera“ due to the high prices and low quality of products. Even at the markets, food is becoming a luxury. Prices in pharmacies are constantly increasing, with new price tags being drawn up every day.
Clothing in occupied Melitopol is also not affordable. Local residents are outraged by the prices, regularly comparing them to prices in Russia or other „new regions.“ Each time, the comparison is not in favor of Melitopol.
Recently, in one of the local social media groups, a post was published addressing the local entrepreneurs in Melitopol. The post expressed frustration with the exorbitant prices of clothing and the poor quality of the products being sold. The idea of a boycott was suggested, but not widely supported in the comments.
Many people agree that prices in occupied Melitopol are unreasonably high for all types of goods and services. Some suggest that the situation is being taken advantage of by those who have come to the city due to unrest in other areas. The general sentiment is that prices are inflated, and consumers are being taken advantage of.
Despite the high prices in Melitopol, some residents suggest traveling to Crimea for shopping. Many Melitopol residents are already buying clothes in Simferopol. While some doubt the cost-effectiveness of this option due to additional expenses like transportation and food, those who have shopped in Crimea claim that it is still more affordable, with a wider selection available.
One user even compared prices in Melitopol and Simferopol to illustrate the difference. The comparison showed that prices in Melitopol were 2-3 times higher than in Simferopol for similar items. This significant price difference is a compelling reason for residents to consider traveling to the peninsula for shopping.
In conclusion, the high prices in occupied Melitopol are prompting residents to seek alternatives for shopping, with many opting to travel to Crimea for more affordable options. Some are even contemplating moving to Crimea permanently to avoid the high costs imposed by the occupying authorities in the Zaporizhzhia region. The challenging conditions created by the occupation have led residents to explore new ways to cope with the financial burden of living in a city where everything comes at a high price.