Occupation officials in Crimea ban mopeds and motorcycles at night because they sound like drones Russian-installed authorities in occupied Crimea have prohibited the operation of mopeds, motorcycles, and other motorized two-wheelers between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., effective June 17. This ban is attributed to ensuring public safety and protecting facilities, as the noise from these vehicles can be mistaken for drones, complicating the work of fire teams. This measure follows a recent increase in Ukrainian drone strikes on the peninsula and a prior suspension of nighttime long-distance train services.

• Mopeds, motorcycles, and motorized two-wheelers are banned in occupied Crimea from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., starting June 17.
• The ban aims to enhance public safety and protect military, government, and special facilities.
• Authorities claim the noise of moped engines can be confused with the sound of drones, interfering with fire teams.
• There are also concerns about potential enemy recruitment for nighttime rides and the use of machine guns by mobile fire teams at night.
• Crimea has experienced regular Ukrainian drone attacks since the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
• Long-distance passenger trains in Crimea have ceased operating at night since June 10, following a drone strike on a Moscow–Simferopol train.