Russia: Military operations likely to continue in Belgorod Oblast through mid- June /update 1

Event

Military operations will likely continue in Russia's Belgorod Oblast in the coming days. As of June 8, the situation remains complex. The Ukraine-based Russian separatist groups, Free Russia Legion (LSR) and Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK), claim they are conducting operations in parts of Belgorod Oblast. The RDK stated that they are prepared to meet Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. Explosions and building fires in Shebekino were reported June 4 and June 7.

It is likely that drone strikes, artillery fire, and limited land operations will continue in the coming days. Strikes may cause building damage and civilian casualties. Russian authorities will likely intensify their responses, by increasing security and evacuating civilians. Defensive military operations, including surface-to-air missiles to defend against drone attacks, are likely.

Context

Since late May, military operations have been reported in three separate areas of Belgorod Oblast:

• Belgorod city. Drones struck the city of Belgorod in late May and again on June 1. There are no reports of casualties or major damage. Defensive surface-to-air missile systems were activated in response to the drone attacks.

• Grayvoron. As of June 1, the LSR and RDK claim to have carried out limited operations for the second time in the vicinity of Grayvoron, Kozinka, and Gora-Podol. The first incursion took place May 22.

• Shebekino. The town of Shebekino was struck by artillery fire May 31-June 1. Local authorities reported that 12 people were wounded and 29 buildings damaged. The RDK are likely to have infiltrated the locality of Novaya Tavolzhanka, and claim responsibility for the attack on Shebekino. On June 2, shelling was reported in Maslova Pristan, close to Shebkino. Two civilians were killed. Evacuations of inhabitants from the border region are taking place.

Advice

Avoid travel to active conflict zones in Russia's Belgorod Oblast. Consider leaving these areas by available ground transport if safe to do so. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in the region. You should shelter in place if there is fighting or airstrikes in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls if officials report incoming rocket or artillery fire. Follow the instructions of local security personnel, especially when instructed to seek refuge in air-raid shelters. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Due to the threat of unexploded ordnance, avoid off-road travel. Travel on well-used routes only. Do not approach suspected unexploded ordnance.