Russian tourists have been warned by Ukraine that they could lose their lives if they visit a popular holiday spot.
The Ukrainian defence ministry says holidaymakers will be at the mercy of missile and drone strikes if they head to Crimea, which is part of the Black Sea peninsula annexed by Russia.
A new video targeted at vacationing Russians tells them: “Big plans this summer?
“A travel advisory is in effect for certain beaches.
“We warned you last summer to stay away from Crimea.”
The clip shows alarming images of explosions with tourists fleeing a missile strike. A female Russian tourist is shown in tears.
A terrifying caption reads: "Our seasonal forecast calls for stormy weather "
The stay-away warning came amid scenes of chaos as tourists sought to reach Crimea this weekend.
Intense police checks were underway amid fears of a new bomb attack on the main link from Russia to the peninsula.
The reports suggested concern over a threat from Wagner fighters disbanded by Putin last month.
The searches involved sending children for X-rays and inspecting the glove compartments of cars, said the pro-Ukrainian outlet.
Some Wagner fighters are expected to go into exile in Belarus with leader Yevgeny Prigozhin while others will join the regular Russian army.
But many are seen as unhappy over the choices they are given and the winding down of the armed force.
The Putin-appointed official in charge of transport in Crimea Nikolai Lukashenko said: “Staff numbers on the inspection lines have been increased and control over their work has been strengthened.
“We apologise to citizens for the inconvenience.”
