Russia: Russian officials state explosions occur in Belgorod early July 3, resulting in casualties

Event

Belgorod regional officials stated that several explosions targeted the city of Belgorod around 03:00 July 3. The explosions damaged 11 apartment blocks and 39 houses and also resulted in three deaths and at least four injuries. Although details continue to emerge and remain unconfirmed, reports indicate that several missiles were fired toward Belgorod International Airport (EGO). Some of those missiles may have struck a nearby residential area, causing the explosions. EGO is currently closed to civilian operations and being used as a Russian military base. Ukrainian officials have yet to comment on the incident.

A heightened state of military readiness is likely in Belgorod over the coming hours. Authorities will likely restrict traffic on roads around the incident site to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles, causing localized transport disruptions. Officials may also mandate building evacuations and business closures in the vicinity as a precaution until clearance operations and investigations end.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations.