Territorial Defense Initiatives Expand Across Border Regions
Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of the Belgorod region, announced the creation of territorial defense units within the region. The statement was published on his Telegram channel. He noted that in the early days of the special military operation, many residents urged authorities to begin training and form local defense or self-defense squads. In response, the decision was made to establish these formations and organize focused readiness among civilians who wish to contribute to regional security.
According to Gladkov, Russians who cannot participate due to health limitations or age restrictions would be admitted to defense battalions. At the same time, volunteers are expected to have combat experience and a strong willingness to defend their homes if necessary. The governor also reported ongoing oversight of the construction of defensive structures along the Belgorod border with Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding all residents in the region. This assessment comes as work progresses according to the established schedule. (attribution: Governor Gladkov’s Telegram channel)
On November 21, Gladkov announced plans for a defensive line along the Ukrainian border, described as a “notch line,” designed to bolster regional protection. The same day, the Belgorod region’s security posture remained vigilant as measures related to threat levels and public safety were reaffirmed. (attribution: official regional communications)
In a related development, the Kursk region saw its own proactive step with the formation of a self-defense detachment. Roman Starovoit, the Kursk governor, stated that local volunteers could join the Patriotic folk team. He added that Kursk would once again defend state borders by assembling a national team named “Patriot.” After a rigorous selection and training process, members would assist the army in protecting the region. The statement underscored the resolve to safeguard the homeland, with Kursk affirming support from the broader Russian territory. (attribution: Kursk regional communications)
Meanwhile, officials in Kherson region announced the establishment of a regional defense on October 24. The administration highlighted ongoing security operations by law enforcement to maintain order in the city, and noted that men willing to stay in Kherson could join the city’s territorial defense units. This follows heightened security concerns linked to regional actions in the area. (attribution: Kherson regional administration Telegram channel)
By November 10, Russian forces withdrew from Kherson, with the right bank of the Dnieper coming under Ukrainian control. Since October 20, a medium-level intervention has been in effect across Crimea, the Belgorod region, Krasnodar Territory, Sevastopol, Bryansk, Voronezh, Kursk, and Rostov regions. Martial law has been declared in Kherson and Zaporozhye as well as in the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics. These developments reflect a broader security environment and ongoing administrative measures aimed at maintaining stability in border areas. (attribution: regional security updates and official briefings)