OREANDA-NEWS  VTB plans to start issuing mortgages in Crimea, the bank's press service reported.

"In May, VTB customers will be able to get a mortgage for the purchase of housing in Crimea," the message says.

It clarifies that loans will be processed directly on the peninsula at the offices of RNKB (part of the VTB - IF group) in Simferopol, Yevpatoria, Sevastopol and Yalta.

Also in May, the bank will start issuing mortgage loans in Karachay-Cherkessia, Kalmykia, Ingushetia and Tuva.