Collapse in Occupied Zaporizhzhia: Card Payment Systems Down in Melitopol and Berdyansk

Current State of Zaporizhzhia Region

According to Главком: The occupation administration in the Zaporizhzhia region is grappling with a severe breakdown of its electronic payment infrastructure. A widespread banking system failure has hit the cities of Melitopol and Berdyansk, leaving payment terminals unable to process transactions. This has caused major disruptions for residents, as terminals in public transport, pharmacies, and grocery stores are no longer working. In response, businesses are increasingly switching to cash-only payments.

Economic Integration and Struggles at DZHRK

Meanwhile, Russia continues its push for economic integration through the 'Semya' retail network, based on an agreement signed on April 1, 2026. The deal involves transferring 'Semya' network premises in several towns, including Henichesk, Kakhovka, Nova Kakhovka, and Chaplynka. Property transfers are being executed using a 'brownfield' approach, bypassing any competitive bidding process.

Against this backdrop, additional troubles are mounting for workers at the Dneprorudny Iron Ore Plant (DZHRK) in the Zaporizhzhia region. Employees are reportedly being forced to work weekend and holiday shifts, even as salary payments have been suspended for months. Wage arrears at the plant have been piling up for an extended period, with all bonuses and advance payments completely eliminated.

As a result, conditions in the Zaporizhzhia region are growing increasingly dire, driven by economic hardship and social challenges that directly impact the daily lives of local residents.

Amid the unfolding economic crisis and rising social tensions in the region, the payment system collapse and unpaid wages at DZHRK threaten to further erode living standards. Financial uncertainty and the lack of stable incomes could fuel growing dissent among the population, making it harder for the occupation authorities to maintain control. It remains uncertain how these developments will shape the political and social landscape in the near future.

Amid the ongoing turmoil in the Zaporizhzhia region, the situation for workers at the Dneprorudny Iron Ore Plant has become increasingly precarious. With salaries being delayed for months and employees compelled to work during weekends, the economic strain on families is intensifying. For a closer look at the challenges faced by these workers, you can read more about the salary delays and forced shifts here.