Footage posted by local Telegram channels shows water contaminated with rust and suspended particles, as residents display murky samples from their taps. One man asked, “What are you trying to do, poison us?” while others accused the Moscow-appointed administration of neglect. The hardest-hit area, Osypenko, has reportedly had no water for over a month. Despite promises by officials like Denis Pushilin and Andrey Chertkov to fix the situation, residents say supplies remain inadequate and inconsistent.

Pro-Kremlin outlets continue to publish images of functioning fountains and beach scenes to counter criticism, though videos show people in the background carrying water bottles. The dissonance has fueled online backlash and open letters from residents demanding Putin take direct control.

Occupation Policies Blamed For Worsening Conditions

Russia’s annexation of Donetsk and surrounding regions included constitutional amendments and forced passportization, which critics argue has compounded the humanitarian crisis. Access to basic services is now tied to accepting Russian citizenship, limiting aid for those refusing to cooperate with occupation authorities.

The Atlantic Council reported a surge in pro-Russian bot activity trying to deflect blame onto Kyiv while promoting Russian control. Meanwhile, local activists and observers point to Russia’s destruction of infrastructure and mismanagement as the root causes of the crisis. Despite temporary pipeline repairs and the relocation of pumping stations, Moscow-appointed officials admit these measures are “not enough” to restore reliable water access.