Heightened Security Measures in Belgorod Amid Ukrainian Shelling

Vyacheslav Gladkov, governor of Russia's Belgorod region, announced severe civilian movement restrictions in 14 villages bordering Ukraine due to intense Ukrainian shelling. Only adult men on military or government duty, traveling in armored vehicles, will be allowed. Temporary shelters and financial aid are planned for displaced residents.

Access to 14 villages in Russia's southern Belgorod region, bordering Ukraine, will be restricted for most civilians, according to a statement by Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov on Tuesday. Citing the 'extremely difficult' conditions caused by Ukrainian shelling, Gladkov announced that only adult men accompanying military or government officials could enter these areas. These men must travel in armored vehicles and wear bulletproof vests and helmets.

'I hope you will agree that it is unacceptable to let women and children into settlements that are shelled every day,' Gladkov said. 'We have already lost many civilians and have many wounded. Our task is to maximize security measures.'

The Belgorod region frequently endures Ukrainian shelling and drone attacks, with four civilians injured overnight on Tuesday. Air raid sirens are a regular occurrence in the regional capital, just 40 km north of the border. Ukraine reports severe devastation from Russian shelling, with Russian forces controlling about a fifth of Ukraine.

Gladkov's new restrictions indicate a worsening security situation in the area. More than 200 civilians have died in Belgorod since Russia's 'special military operation' began in February 2022, with over 1,100 wounded, according to state-run TASS news. Temporary evacuation shelters are planned, though spaces are limited, along with financial aid ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 roubles for families finding alternative housing. Utility payments will be paused and defense personnel will guard vacant homes.

'When a person leaves his home, the worry - where he will live, what will happen to his property - leads to big grievances, big, complicated emotional discussions,' Gladkov added. 'But the most important thing is a person's life.' ($1 = 88.4455 roubles)