School and College Closures in Belgorod Region Due to Intensified Ukrainian Attacks
Following a surge in Ukrainian attacks on the Russian territory of Belgorod, all schools and colleges will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. The region’s governor, Vyacheslav Gladkov, made the announcement via Telegram, adding that shopping malls would also be shut down on Sunday and Monday. The affected districts border Ukraine, with Belgorod city itself also subject to the closures.
Bringing the War in Ukraine Closer to Home for Russians
These frequent attacks have brought the ongoing conflict in Ukraine closer to home for many Russians, who were previously isolated from it. In a statement on Telegram, Gladkov acknowledged that “the situation is quite difficult both in the city and in Belgorod district.” He emphasized the importance of safety, expressing concern for teachers, nannies, and technical staff.
School Closures Extended Following Increased Attacks
The schools and colleges in the affected districts have been closed since Tuesday evening last week. At that time, Gladkov announced a “days of self-learning” program for students, which was intended to last through Friday. However, the intensified attacks have forced an extension of these closures.
Ukraine’s Escalating Attacks on Belgorod Region
The Belgorod region has been subjected to Ukrainian attacks since the first half of 2023, but the intensity of these assaults increased about a week ago. Despite this, people in Belgorod have continued to participate in Russia’s ongoing presidential election.
Civil Disobedience and Casualties
On Saturday, Gladkov reported that two people had been killed in early morning attacks, including a truck driver whose vehicle was struck by a shell. Ukrainian forces have been attempting to infiltrate Russia at several locations and have faced retaliation from Russian forces, according to the Defense Ministry.
Local Residents Share Videos of Explosions and Fires
Residents in Belgorod have been sharing videos of explosions in the city and fires burning outside residential buildings on regional social media platforms. In one video, a woman is heard expressing her fear at leaving her apartment.
Cross-Border Attacks and Casualties
Earlier in the week, Ukrainian groups of Russian fighters launched a cross-border attack in Belgorod while the city itself sustained heavy drone strikes and shelling. At least five people have been reported killed, and several dozen wounded, according to reports.
Defense Ministry Responds with Complex Fire Attack
The Russian Defense Ministry reported on its Telegram channel that their forces had repelled attempts by Ukrainian fighters to infiltrate Russia at several locations. They carried out a “complex fire attack on concentrations of enemy manpower and equipment,” according to the Ministry.
The War in Ukraine’s Impact on Belgorod
Despite the escalating tensions and violence, Russian citizens in Belgorod continue to exercise their democratic right to vote in the ongoing presidential election. The conflict’s ripple effects have now reached the region, affecting everyday life and raising concerns for safety and security.
