Belgorod: The Belgorod region in Russia has declared a state of emergency following a series of attacks by Ukrainian forces. This marks a significant escalation as Kyiv claims control over substantial Russian territory after a rare cross-border incursion.

This incursion is the first time since 1941 that a foreign military has entered Russian soil, though Ukraine has emphasized that this is a temporary tactical move. The aim appears to be both to bring the conflict closer to Russia and to strengthen Ukraine's position for future peace negotiations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has promised a strong response but is expected to act within the limits of NATO’s red lines. The immediate response may include increased cyber attacks on Ukraine's Western allies, while Russia focuses on retaliatory measures against Ukraine.

Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported that the situation remains "extremely difficult and tense" in the region. He shared that evacuations began on Monday due to Ukrainian advances and that there have been attacks on the city of Shebekino and the village of Ustinka. While there were no casualties, two homes were damaged by Ukrainian drones.

The incursion follows Ukraine’s surprise attack on the neighboring Kursk region last week and represents a shift in Ukraine’s military strategy. Regional authorities in Belgorod are now urging the Russian government to declare a federal emergency.

In response to the heightened threat, Russia’s National Guard has increased security around the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant. Known as Rosgvardiya, the National Guard has implemented additional protective measures. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed concern over the military activities near the plant, with Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi calling for maximum restraint from both sides to prevent any potential nuclear accidents.

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