The Story Of Natalie Kambaratova, A Russian Who Is Surviving Amid Economic Difficulties Affected By Sanctions Invasion Of Ukraine, Now Relies On Crypto

Natalie Kambaratova (23) Russian Caucasian in Bali/PHOTO: DAFI VOI

BADUNG - Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Russian citizens have been affected by the sanctions policies of a number of countries, including the issue of withdrawing money.

Natalie Kambaratova (23), a Russian citizen, also feels about her life while on the Island of the Gods.

Natalie has been in Bali for three months. Currently, her economic condition is much different after the war between Russia and Ukraine.

Natalie is from Nizhny Novgorod City. When he arrived in Bali, he thought she would live a cheap life.

However, this condition did not last long because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine so that the Russian Ruble exchange rate fell. All needs go up.

"Initially everything was cheaper here, but now it's a bit more expensive for me. Because the USD went up high and our exchange rate went lower. But Bali is still better because the people are nice," Natalie said when met at Berawa Beach, Canggu, North Kuta District, Badung Regency, Bali, Friday, March 18.

Natalie could not withdraw money from the ATM machine because the transaction was blocked. However, she claimed to be able to survive because her current financial condition relies on her digital assets, namely crypto for her daily needs.

"All Russians cannot use their ATMs. At that time, we were told by the bank that we would not be able to use our cards for all transactions and were only given five hours to withdraw money at the ATM," she said.

"We were very surprised and had to try to get our money and we are now using crypto. My future plans, I've been working in the online field to get money from my clients. I also have crypto and currently I have a local card (Indonesian ATM)," continued Natalie.

Now Natalie and a number of Russian citizens have to save money in Bali. "I have to be more economical now, share hotel rooms with friends, go to cafes only once," she said.