Clashes in Western Russia: Ukrainian Allies Claim Presence Despite Moscow's Denials

On Friday, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported that it "repelled attacks by Ukrainian forces" in the Kursk and Belgorod regions in western Russia. In contrast, Russian volunteer units allied with Kyiv countered this statement, labeling it "a lie." They asserted their continued presence in Russia and showcased a video featuring prisoners.

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The Russian Volunteer Corps, one of the units fighting alongside Ukraine, firmly refuted the Russian Ministry of Defense's claim made on Friday.

"The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation's declarations regarding the complete elimination of Russian volunteer units are yet another falsehood. The limited military action in the Belgorod and Kursk regions is ongoing, and here's the evidence - a new group of captives from the Russian army. We extend another invitation to Governor Gladkov for a meeting to transfer the prisoners," the Russian volunteers announced on Telegram.

Raid on the Russian border

On March 12, concerted efforts by units from the Freedom of Russia Legion, the Russian Volunteer Corps, and the Siberian Battalion saw them crossing into the Belgorod and Kursk regions of Russia. The Freedom of Russia Legion subsequently declared full control over the town of Tiotkino in the Kursk region, with regular Russian military units swiftly retreating from the area.

The Ministry of Defense in Moscow stated on Friday that they had countered this incursion. Meanwhile, the Belgorod region's authorities reported that one territorial defense soldier had been killed and ten civilians injured during the conflict.

It is crucial to note that the exact details surrounding these clashes remain elusive.