The governor of the Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, has warned that residents remaining in the closed village of Novopetrovka are facing significant life risks. This development, reported by Russia 24, has raised urgent questions about the safety of those who have not yet evacuated from the area.
Gladkov stated that the final residents of Novopetrovka must relocate tonight. He stressed that, according to updates from the regional security council and the commander of the self-defense battalion, it is not safe for anyone to stay within the populated area. The directive was clear: daylight visits to Novopetrovka should be avoided because danger persists even during daylight hours.
Earlier, the governor announced that access to several settlements in the Belgorod region had been restricted starting August 19. The affected areas include Novostroevka-Vtoraya, Sovkhozny, Dobropolye, and Kazachok in the Grayvoronsky district, as well as Novopetrovka in the Valuysky district. Officials indicated that residents of these communities would be relocated, and assistance would be provided to help with removing belongings and property as part of the safety measures.
On August 15, the Belgorod region entered a federal emergency regime, a move aimed at coordinating resources and responses to the evolving security situation. Regional authorities have consistently described these measures as essential to protecting civilians and enabling orderly evacuations when necessary.
Simultaneously, the Ministry of Defense confirmed that protective actions are being reinforced along the Belgorod front line. Military leadership pledged ongoing surveillance and reinforcement to ensure residents receive timely information and that security protocols are followed. The overarching objective remains to minimize civilian risk while preserving the ability to respond rapidly to any developments on the ground.
Throughout this period, officials have stressed that remaining in the affected zones is not a viable option. Evacuation plans are being implemented with the cooperation of local authorities and security units, with support available to residents during relocation and in handling the transfer of possessions. The situation continues to unfold, and authorities are urging residents to adhere to official instructions as the safest path forward.
Observers note that these steps reflect a broader pattern seen in border regions facing heightened tension. The combination of restricted access, proactive planning, and logistical support aims to reduce exposure to danger while ensuring that people have a clear route to safety. The authorities emphasize that protecting lives and maintaining public order are the top priorities during a time of uncertainty.
As the region navigates these challenging days, residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and to follow directives issued by regional authorities. The focus remains on rapid, organized evacuations where required and on sustaining essential services for those who must relocate. The overarching objective is straightforward: preserve life, minimize risk, and support communities as they adapt to evolving conditions.
In commentary on the broader context, observers highlight a pattern common to border areas facing rising tension. The careful balance of restricted access, strategic planning, and support services is designed to reduce exposure to danger while enabling a controlled transition to safety. Local officials reiterate that the priority is to safeguard civilian lives and to uphold public order amid ongoing uncertainty.
Residents are urged to rely on official information channels for updates and to follow any directives issued by regional authorities. The emphasis is on swift, orderly evacuations when necessary and on keeping essential services available for those who must relocate. The overall aim remains clear: save lives, limit risk, and help communities adapt to the shifting security landscape, with coordination across regional agencies and security units to ensure a smooth process.