Territorial defense battalions established in the Belgorod region operate as volunteer formations, drawing on the participation of local residents who choose to serve in a civilian capacity. The defense leadership described these units as civilian volunteers who organize themselves to contribute to regional security without the formal status of active duty soldiers. In remarks delivered to the press, the head of the State Duma Defense Committee explained that these battalions are made up of ordinary citizens who volunteer their time and resources to support the broader mission of national defense. He emphasized that this is a voluntary initiative by people, not a component of the regular armed forces, and that the volunteers do not receive weapons or formal military status typical of service members. The deputy underscored that the legal framework exists to support such formations, framing them as civilian, voluntary units that will address tasks coordinated with the Ministry of Defense rather than operate as a standing military corps.
The regional leadership confirmed that these regional defense units are being organized to augment local security capabilities. They will recruit individuals who may be unavailable for military conscription due to age or health constraints but still possess valuable combat experience. This approach aims to maximize the region’s defensive readiness while keeping volunteers in a civilian status. The authorities stressed that participants in these formations do not replace professional soldiers; instead, they complement official forces by performing tasks that align with national defense priorities while remaining outside the traditional armed forces framework.
In parallel, officials indicated that a similar cadre has been established in neighboring Kursk region under the name Patriot, signaling a broader model for voluntary regional defense across the border area. The expansion reflects a strategic emphasis on leveraging the experience and readiness of veteran volunteers to support regional safety efforts, while ensuring that legal and organizational distinctions between volunteer units and the regular military are maintained. This approach is intended to enhance resilience in border regions through civilian-led, government-coordinated actions that bolster overall defense posture without altering the constitutional status of the armed forces.
Observers note that the program relies on clear lines of authority and defined missions so that volunteers can operate effectively within the broader national defense architecture. By maintaining civilian status, the volunteers can participate in community-oriented security activities, participate in training, and assist with logistics, surveillance, and emergency response in coordination with official defense structures. The combined effect is to expand regional capacity for rapid response, improve information sharing, and support the Ministry of Defense with experienced personnel while preserving the essential distinction between civilian volunteers and professional service members.
Officials also stress the importance of ongoing oversight and compliance with applicable laws, ensuring that volunteer units function safely and responsibly. The goal is to empower communities to contribute to defense goals within a well-defined legal framework, preserving the integrity of military chains of command while recognizing the value that seasoned civilians bring to regional security. As the program develops, further updates on recruitment criteria, training standards, and oversight mechanisms are anticipated to ensure coherent operation across Belgorod and Kursk regions.