Belgorod’s Governor Restricts Access to Border Villages Amid Ongoing Shelling
The governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, has announced new restrictions on public access to 14 border villages due to relentless bombardment from Ukraine. This decision, shared on Telegram, comes in the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s offensive on Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region. The offensive, initiated in May, was intended to create a security buffer zone to protect Belgorod from Ukrainian shelling. However, the region continues to face frequent drone attacks and shelling, resulting in numerous fatalities among its residents.
Background Context
In February 2022, Russia commenced what it termed a "special military operation" in Ukraine. This event has drastically reshaped geopolitical dynamics and led to severe humanitarian crises. The Belgorod region, due to its proximity to the Ukraine border, has been particularly vulnerable to cross-border hostilities. Putin’s efforts to create a buffer zone have not alleviated the violence, and Belgorod has remained under constant threat.
New Measures
Effective from July 23, the new measures will see checkpoints established on access roads to the 14 villages listed by Gladkov. "Checkpoints will be set up on access roads and representatives of law enforcement will be on duty there," he noted. Public transport, including taxis, will be banned from these areas.
"We will only allow adult men under strict conditions: in an armored vehicle equipped with electronic warfare devices and personal protective equipment (PPE), including bullet-proof vests and helmets, and accompanied by military personnel," Gladkov detailed. He emphasized that it was "unacceptable" to allow women and children into these heavily shelled residential areas.
Protecting Lives
While the governor did not mandate a full evacuation, he did offer financial support for those opting to leave the conflict zones. Residents who relocate will receive monthly payments to cover rent expenses. "Our task is to take maximum security measures," Gladkov stated, adding that those who remained would have their homes guarded by the military.
Addressing the citizens, he said, "I hope, dear friends, you will be understanding about this decision," though he acknowledged that positive responses were unlikely. Gladkov emphasized the importance of preserving lives, noting the significant loss of life and injuries sustained in the region.
According to the state-run TASS news agency, more than 200 civilians have perished in Belgorod since the conflict began in February 2022.
Conclusion
The Belgorod region continues to endure the harsh realities of war as local authorities strive to safeguard residents under dire conditions. Governor Gladkov’s new restrictions aim to minimize the loss of life while dealing with the persistent threat of shelling and drone attacks. As the Ukraine conflict shows no signs of abating, Belgorod’s residents find themselves at the frontline of an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
For more details, you can visit the official website of the Belgorod region.
