Russia: Casualties in attack on Belgorod, Dec. 30 /update 1

Officials in Belgorod have reported that at least 10 people were killed and 45 others injured after suspected Ukrainian rocket fire targeted the city center earlier on Dec. 30. The rocket fire reportedly struck residential and commercial properties. The incident follows and is likely in retaliation for a major Russian missile and drone attack on Ukrainian cities Dec. 29, which left at least 39 people dead and more than 150 injured.

A heightened state of military readiness is likely in Belgorod over the coming hours. Authorities will likely restrict traffic on roads around the incident sites 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.