The Voronezh region is preparing to welcome larger families displaced from the Belgorod region due to shelling, following a request from Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. The information was shared by Voronezh Governor Alexander Gusev on a Telegram channel. In his update, Gusev explained that the regional authorities are coordinating with social services to organize housing, medical support, and essential welfare for those arriving families. The goal is to ensure a smooth and humane transition for residents who found themselves without a home amid the ongoing hostilities and to provide stability during an uncertain period.
According to the governor, all necessary organizational steps are already being undertaken by social services in coordination with municipal administrations. The plan emphasizes comprehensive assistance, including housing arrangements, access to social benefits, and the continuation of education and healthcare for children and adults alike. Officials stressed that the region will do everything possible to ease the burden on families who have fled the immediate danger and to help them rebuild a sense of normalcy as soon as they can settle in a new community.
Gusev underscored the commitment to neighborly solidarity, stating that neighboring regions facing disruption should not have to face hardship alone. The administration in Voronezh intends to extend support beyond the initial relocation, offering ongoing services and guidance to families as they adapt to life in a different locality. This approach includes coordinating with local schools, clinics, and social workers to ensure continuity of care and access to resources during the transition period.
Meanwhile, regional health authorities reported significant losses from the conflict. On March 18, the health ministry noted that more than 80 people had died in Belgorod and its surroundings in the preceding week due to shelling. The figures highlight the humanitarian toll of the attacks and the urgent need for protective measures, humanitarian corridors, and medical readiness to handle casualties and provide care for the injured. Health officials emphasized the importance of rapid response, trauma support, and long-term health services to communities affected by the violence.
On the same day, President Vladimir Putin indicated that Russia could consider creating a temporary sanitary zone in neighboring regions to mitigate the impact of ongoing attacks by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Belgorod. The proposed concept reflects a regional security stance aimed at safeguarding civilian populations and ensuring that neighboring areas are prepared to support those displaced as the situation evolves. The statement signals that coordination across regional governments remains a priority as authorities assess risk, plan evacuations, and coordinate the distribution of relief resources to those in need.