On December 21, Vladimir Delba, the [de-facto] Acting Finance Minister of [the separatist] Abkhazia, stated that the budget system remains under control despite financial challenges in the last quarter of 2024.

Delba explained that financial aid was partially suspended in September and fully halted in November, leading to a reorientation of budget expenditures. He assured that November's wage fund for budget employees had been nearly fulfilled, and efforts were underway to finance December wages. He emphasized, “So far, the situation is like this.” He also noted that all other programs would remain suspended until the wage fund was fully provided.

Delba highlighted that state budget revenues for 2024 reached 11.2 billion rubles (107.15 million euros), describing this as unprecedented, particularly noting significant revenues in November and December. Regarding the energy sector, he revealed that 780 million rubles (7.47 million euros) had been allocated, with 705 million rubles (6.74 million euros) used to purchase commercial overflow. Of this, 200 million rubles (1.91 million euros) were provided by Russia, while 505 million rubles (4.83 million euros) came from domestic taxpayers, who paid for electricity consumption. He acknowledged a substantial debt for consumed electricity, totaling 4 billion rubles (38.28 million euros).

Acting President of [the unrecognized] Abkhazia Badra Gunba addressed the crisis by appealing to Russia for a humanitarian electricity supply, warning, “Cutting off light for 9-11 hours a day is a judgment on the health care and education system. It jeopardizes the lives and health of our children, the elderly, and socially unprotected populations. Abkhazia may face a humanitarian catastrophe.” Gunba also urged Abkhazia’s political forces to unite and maintain strong relations with its primary ally, Russia.

On December 22, it was announced that Russia would begin supplying humanitarian electricity to Abkhazia starting December 23. Gunba expressed gratitude, stating, “In response to the appeal of Abkhazia, the Russian leadership has once again extended a helping hand to us.” 

Dmitry Peskov, the Russian presidential spokesman, affirmed Russia’s commitment to ensuring stability and prosperity for Abkhazia.

Chernomorenergo also announced a new schedule of power cuts effective December 23, reducing outages to four hours daily—two hours each during the day and night. The specific reasons for this decision were not disclosed.