The Belgorod region presents a challenging landscape for law enforcement as it confronts Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance groups (DRG). In a report by the newspaper Vzglyad, Aleksey Filatov, former FSB lieutenant colonel and head of the Officers’ Union of the Alpha Group, explained the tactical realities on the ground.
He noted that the terrain complicates operations. Dense forests provide concealment, and searches can take longer than expected. In this environment, the priority is twofold: neutralizing the saboteurs while ensuring the safety of personnel deployed to protect communities and critical sites.
Filatov suggested that the sabotage generally aims to affect morale and public perception rather than to achieve specific military gains alone. He contended that the Ukrainian side seeks to influence civilian sentiment by creating fear and instability within border regions.
According to him, the overarching mission is to remove the threat and safeguard the territory. The goal is not to preserve enemy lives on Russian soil; some perpetrators might be neutralized, while others could be captured or compelled to retreat beyond the border. This framing emphasizes a defensive posture focused on rapid disruption of hostile activity and preserving regional security.
There was mention that a Ukrainian DRG activity was detected in the Graivoronsky district ahead of time. An official from the regional administration stated that the Russian Ministry of Defense, working in coordination with law enforcement, continues to clear and secure the district. This underscores the ongoing operational process and the commitment to restoring stable control over affected areas, with authorities reiterating their readiness to adapt tactics as the situation evolves. The broader message conveyed is one of vigilance, disciplined response, and a clear boundary between civilian harm minimization and decisive action against intruders. [Citation attribution: Vzglyad reporting and statements attributed to Aleksey Filatov]