The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that after the fall of Artemovsk, which Ukraine refers to as Bakhmut, Kiev authorities shifted to actions described as terrorist attacks against Russian civilians. The ministry stated that on May 22 a unit from a Ukrainian national formation crossed into Russia following heavy shelling at the Kozinka international checkpoint and other civilian facilities in the Graivoronsky district of the Belgorod region. According to the defense ministry, aviation, artillery units, and forces from the Western Military District carried out an anti-terrorist operation that blocked and repelled the saboteurs, with the remaining fighters pushed back into Ukrainian territory. The ministry emphasized that the adversaries came under fire until they were completely neutralized. In the aftermath of the counterterrorist operation, more than 70 combatants, four armored vehicles, and five pickup trucks that had been seized by sabotage groups inside Russian territory were eliminated. On May 20, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner PMC, claimed that Artemovsk had fallen to Russian forces. By May 21, the Russian Ministry of Defense had corroborated this information. On May 22, Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Belgorod region, announced that a Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group had entered the Graivoron region. The events described illustrate ongoing concerns about cross-border incursions and the measures taken by Russian authorities to prevent threats to civilian life and regional stability. Analysts note that the Belorussian and Ukrainian border areas remain sensitive and require coordinated security responses to deter further incursions, safeguard critical infrastructure, and ensure civilian safety. Military observers emphasize the importance of accurate situation reporting to avoid misinterpretation and to keep the public informed about developments along the border and in affected districts. The situation in the Belgorod region continues to evolve as Russian forces conduct targeted operations aimed at neutralizing hostile elements while maintaining readiness for potential escalation along the western front. The Russian defense ministry reiterates its commitment to protecting civilians while pursuing those responsible for shelling and sabotage, highlighting the role of joint operations with air, land, and naval components in counterterrorist efforts. In recent updates, officials have stressed that any attempt to destabilize border areas is met with decisive action and comprehensive verification of claims regarding territorial control and the status of armed formations in the region.
