Border Provisions in Kursk: Movement, Passes, and Protection

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Socialbites.ca raised questions about potential population evacuation plans in border areas, whether residents feel such measures are needed, and if implementation is feasible.

Roman Starovoit stated that the border zone is monitored closely and responses are rapid to any shifts. He noted that a yellow level of terrorist threat is active in the Kursk region, primarily to support the operations of essential services. Observation posts were established in locations with military and police presence, and patrols in nearby settlements have intensified. Kuryan was urged to stay vigilant.

There is no current plan to evacuate border communities. However, authorities acknowledge residents’ concerns in villages near the border and have offered a voluntary option to relocate from areas within about five kilometers of the frontier. Those who choose this option may apply to their local administration and will be accommodated in temporary centers at no cost.

During a discussion about a recent oath taken by the Belgorod regional governor restricting access for border-region residents to nearby villages, the question arose whether movement rights are being curtailed. Citizens retain the freedom of movement, but border-area rules come with certain exceptions. Residents who are registered and permanently live in these settlements can stay as long as needed. Foreigners require a special pass to remain near the border, and applications should go through the Border Guard Service.

When May 30 brought additional forces to the Kursk region, questions emerged about changes in security. The region’s border remained tense. The Russian Ministry of Defense supplied extra troops, weapons, and personnel to protect residents, along with enhanced anti-aircraft and artillery capabilities and electronic intelligence units. Army aviation focused on border patrols.

Incidents persist, though with less frequency. Some settlements have been shell-pocked, and Ukrainian drones were used to drop explosive devices in some cases. For instance, a drone strike in the Belovsky district damaged a farm site, breaking windows and harming a fence. Earlier, Gordeevka village experienced mortar fire that damaged several houses.

In response to shelling, the combined efforts of the FSB Border Guard and the Russian armed forces aim to suppress firing points quickly, enabling the identification and neutralization of enemy weapons.

When asked about plans to strengthen Kursk’s defenses further, it was confirmed that more armed forces have been deployed to shield border communities. Ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Defense and intelligence services ensures daily alignment of security measures, with established procedures for emergencies and regular interaction with military garrisons and law enforcement leadership.

Public questions about evacuation numbers were addressed by reporting that more than 200 border residents have temporarily moved to stay with relatives, and about 14 more have used temporary accommodation centers in the period under review.

On the topic of security, the speaker asserted that no current need exists for people to leave the region. The region’s economy remains steady, residents continue to work, and security is backed by the national defense structure. A larger border-protection grouping has been put in place, and efforts are focused on ensuring the safety of Kursk’s population and visitors. Checkpoints, filters, and border-zone controls are actively managed by border guards, police, and National Guard units, with 24-hour monitoring and timely public updates in case of events. For now, Kurians are not in danger, but individuals are advised to make their own informed choices based on the situation.

In June, a working visit to the Donetsk People’s Republic took place, with a signed cooperation agreement indicating Kursk would extend protection to Pervomaisky district. The goal is to assist with restoration work there. Concrete projects include repairs to a kindergarten in Mangush, ongoing school renovations, and preparation of social infrastructure for the coming season. Plans also mention upgrading mortar and asphalt plants, roads, and damaged buildings, plus the potential construction of a water supply line from Berdyansk, leveraging the Dnieper River basin for fresh water or desalination. Future plans may involve water treatment facilities along coast settlements.

Financial aspects remain under discussion, with troubleshooting ongoing and estimates to follow. During the visit, medicines and Russian books were delivered to residents, and funds from the Childhood World marathon, totaling more than 1.1 million rubles, supported local kindergartens with office equipment and toys.

When asked about the cost of restoring Kursk region facilities damaged by shelling, the answer noted that some sites suffered significant damage but have mostly been repaired, with a few minor tasks remaining. Specific incidents included disruption in Tyotkino, where facilities across health, education, culture, and industry were affected. Restoration costs reached around 70 million rubles, funded from the region’s reserve. Other villages such as Vorobzha, Alekseevka, and Dronovka also faced repeated shelling. Bridges and critical infrastructure were repaired, with updates to residential buildings, schools, and cultural centers. Utility networks, including a substation, gas pipeline, and electrical systems, were restored in a timely manner.

In Alekseevka and Dronovka, damages affected housing and schools, while in Vorobzha, multiple structures underwent reconstruction after bombardment. Most villages have seen restoration completed, reflecting concerted efforts to stabilize living conditions and safety across the border area.

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