‘Everyone understands Moscow doesn’t care’: Inside the only uncensored news outlet in Russia’s war-torn border regions Russia’s Belgorod region is facing a severe energy crisis following a Ukrainian attack, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and water, with local authorities struggling to provide aid and state media remaining silent. The Telegram channel Pepel has emerged as a crucial source of uncensored information, reporting on the crisis and the war’s impact, despite facing accusations of “stoking panic” from Russian authorities. Its editor-in-chief, Nikita Parmenov, discusses the challenges of independent journalism in a censored environment and the growing weariness and apathy among residents towards the conflict and Moscow’s perceived indifference.

• Belgorod region is experiencing a “catastrophic” energy crisis, with approximately 600,000 people left without electricity after a Ukrainian attack on January 8.
• Local state-controlled media are reportedly instructed not to cover the blackout, while the independent Telegram channel Pepel provides uncensored reporting.
• Pepel’s editor-in-chief, Nikita Parmenov, explains that the channel was launched to offer a platform for free journalistic expression.
• The region faces ongoing challenges with power outages, lack of water, and difficulty in securing generators for private households.
• Pepel also covers attacks in Ukrainian regions to provide a comprehensive view of the war’s interconnectedness.
• Residents of Belgorod are described as tired of the war, apathetic towards Moscow, and focused on survival.
• Looting by Russian soldiers has been reported in border areas, particularly in the Kursk region.
• Pepel has expanded to include a “Pepel Kursk” channel and plans to launch outlets in Bryansk and Voronezh to cover border regions.
• The channel relies on grants and partnerships for funding.
• Russian authorities have labeled Pepel journalists as “enemies” and are vowing to investigate them.