Russia, Belgorod Declares Emergency, Ukraine Incursion Escalate Tensions

On Wednesday, the Belgorod region of Russia declared an emergency following new attacks by Ukrainian forces. Kyiv has claimed control of significant Russian territory after its rare cross-border incursion. Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov described the situation as “extremely difficult and tense” in a Telegram video message.

The emergency declaration followed evacuations that began on Monday due to Ukrainian advances. This marked a notable shift in Ukraine’s tactics, as it is the first time foreign troops have entered Russian territory since World War II. Regional officials are now urging the Russian government to declare a federal emergency.

Ukrainian drones attacked the city of Shebekino and the village of Ustinka, causing damage to two residences but no casualties. In response, Russia’s National Guard increased security around the Kursk nuclear plant, citing the need for additional protection. The International Atomic Energy Agency has been monitoring the situation and called for restraint to avoid a nuclear accident.

Russia’s defense ministry reported the destruction of dozens of drones and four tactical missiles over the Kursk region, part of a broader defense effort that also included the downing of 117 drones overnight. In Voronezh, which borders Kursk and Belgorod, over 35 Ukrainian drones were destroyed. No casualties were reported, but damage to property and infrastructure was noted.

Since the incursion began, tens of thousands of Russians have fled their homes, and Moscow has imposed counter-terrorism operations in Kursk, Belgorod, and Bryansk. Kyiv claimed control of nearly as much land as Russia has seized this year, though this is still less than the total Ukrainian territory held by Russia since 2014.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian forces control 74 settlements in Kursk and are preparing for further actions. The incursion has embarrassed the Kremlin, with President Vladimir Putin vowing to expel Ukrainian forces. US President Joe Biden commented on the situation, noting it as a significant dilemma for Putin.