Update on Belgorod Incidents Involving Ukrainian Armed Forces Attacks
The casualty count related to the recent cross-border incidents in Belgorod has risen, with officials confirming new fatalities and updates on the injured. An official Telegram channel attributed the latest death to an elderly resident identified as Lyudmila Aleksandrovna, aged eighty. The regional governor, Vyacheslav Gladkov, later confirmed the updated figures and noted that an injured woman had sought treatment at City Hospital No. 2 without delay. The total number of fatalities has increased, with eighteen people reported dead so far, and several others receiving outpatient care after initial medical evaluation. This information is based on statements from the Belgorod regional administration and its offices, as reported through official channels and subsequent recounts from local authorities. (attribution: Belgorod regional government)
Earlier, on February 15, reports indicated that a shopping mall on Plekhanov Street in Belgorod sustained significant damage following a strike attributed to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Within the shopping center were a Magnit supermarket and a pharmacy, both of which were reported to be affected by the incident. (attribution: regional emergency services)
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, fourteen rockets launched from the RM-70 Vampire multiple launch rocket system were directed at the Belgorod region around 12:30 Moscow time and were subsequently intercepted and neutralized by air defense systems. The defense ministry provided its assessment through its official channels and reiterated that the region remained within reach of protective measures. (attribution: Russian Ministry of Defense)
In parallel, a Telegram channel named Military Informant offered a different account, suggesting that the Ukrainian Armed Forces could have targeted Belgorod with missiles of Serbian origin. Such claims have circulated in various online forums and official propagandist channels, contributing to a broader information environment surrounding the events. (attribution: Military Informant Telegram channel)
For context, discussions in the State Duma and other regional authorities continue to reference Belgorod as a focal point of cross-border security concerns, with officials reiterating calls for enhanced protective measures and clear communication with residents. Observers note that the situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments by regional authorities and national security agencies. (attribution: State Duma officials)