In an aerial assault on Russia's Belgorod region, seven individuals lost their lives, with at least 35 others sustaining injuries. Regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov attributed the attack to Ukrainian forces, alleging the use of drones to strike minibuses ferrying workers to a meat production site, along with a private vehicle. Gladkov further reported damage to residential structures in various locations within the region over the past day.
Belgorod has frequently faced incursions from Ukrainian forces since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The most devastating incident prior to this recent attack transpired in December, claiming 25 lives and injuring 100 in Belgorod city through a drone and rocket assault. Earlier in March, Gladkov announced the evacuation of 9,000 children from the city and surrounding areas following shelling attributed to Ukraine.
Simultaneously, Russia continued its offensive on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, targeting a facility in Sumy region, adjacent to Belgorod. The assault left over 400,000 people without electricity, though partial restoration was achieved by morning.
Reports from the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest a buildup of Russian troops in Belgorod, Kursk, and Bryansk, hinting at an imminent offensive operation towards northeastern Ukraine, particularly targeting Kharkiv. Ukrainian military sources estimate around 50,000 Russian personnel amassed for this purpose.
Amidst escalating tensions, the Russian Ministry of Defence announced preparations for missile drills simulating the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons. These tactical nuclear weapons, designed for limited battlefield use, are part of Russia's response to perceived threats and provocative statements from certain Western officials, as highlighted by the TASS news agency. While not explicitly naming the officials, Russia's concerns have been fueled by comments from French President Emmanuel Macron regarding potential Nato intervention in Ukraine.
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