The regional administration in Kirov, led by Vyacheslav Simakov, announced that festive events had been canceled in response to the Belgorod bombing. The announcement appeared in a post on his official book Telegram channel, signaling a period of mourning and solidarity with Belgorod residents affected by the shelling. Simakov emphasized that the decision was made to respect the current security climate and the emotional strain on the community, noting that public gatherings often become a focal point for worry and uncertainty in times of crisis.
According to Simakov, Kirov residents join Belgorod residents in mourning. The message underscored a shared sense of grief across neighboring regions, reflecting a broader pattern of regional authorities pausing public celebrations to demonstrate support for those impacted by the attack. The tone conveyed a balanced approach: maintaining public sensitivity while acknowledging the need to avoid potential risks during a heightened security period.
In his post, Simakov stated that entertainment events planned in Kirov would be canceled, marking a shift from planned communal celebrations to more reserved observances. He urged citizens to understand the rationale behind such measures, framing them as considerate actions aimed at preserving public safety and honoring those affected by the shelling in Belgorod. The decision was presented as a collective precaution rather than a punitive measure, inviting residents to stand in solidarity with neighboring communities undergoing hardship.
Earlier, St. Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov indicated that municipal authorities would not host a New Year’s concert on Palace Square as a sign of solidarity with Belgorod survivors. The cancellation was framed as an expression of empathy and shared sorrow, reinforcing a regional stance of restraint in festive activities during a period of national concern. The emphasis remained on respectful commemoration rather than spectacle, aligning city leadership with the broader duty to protect citizens and acknowledge the ongoing impact of the incident.
Despite the postponement of large-scale celebrations, not all public activities were affected. Officials stated that children’s parties would continue to take place, aiming to preserve some sense of normalcy for families and young people amid uncertainty. The decision reflected a nuanced approach that tried to balance communal support with the needs of children and families who rely on holiday events for joy and social connection, even in trying times.
Magadan joined the wave of cancellations, citing the attack on Belgorod as a reason to suspend New Year’s festivities. Mayor Yuri Grishan highlighted that it would be inappropriate to hold traditional events on Teatralnaya Square at midnight, reiterating the priority given to public safety and sensitivity to the situation. The mayor’s remarks conveyed a clear message: celebrations would not proceed as usual when regional security and communal welfare are at stake, reinforcing a cautious stance among local authorities across the region.
Similarly, Vladivostok’s mayor, Konstantin Shestakov, canceled the planned festive firework displays in response to the Belgorod shelling. The move reflected a common pattern of restraint across major cities, illustrating how regional leaders align their celebrations with a shared sense of responsibility and respect for those who have suffered. The decision was communicated as a prudent measure, balancing the desire to maintain holiday spirit with the imperative to avoid unnecessary risks during a volatile period.
In another development, Razvozhaev, the governor of Sevastopol, spoke on behalf of residents to express a temporary pause on citywide New Year’s activities. The stance signaled a collective understanding that public gatherings could be reconsidered in light of the evolving security situation, underscoring a broader theme of regional caution and mutual support in times of crisis. The overall message from Sevastopol highlighted solidarity with Belgorod and neighboring communities, reinforcing the principle that safety and compassion take precedence over festivities during sensitive moments.