World NewsPutin confirms border clash with 'foreign mercenaries' amid tension
Putin confirms border clash with 'foreign mercenaries' amid tension
The armed insurgents, comprising three factions, breached the border during the night between Monday and Tuesday, with simultaneous assaults in Russia's Belgorod and Kursk regions.
Putin acknowledges border skirmish
According to the Russian Defense Ministry, their forces "repelled all attacks," reportedly inflicting losses on the guerrillas—about 300 personnel and several pieces of machinery were destroyed. However, these claims remain unverified.
Statements from the Russian Ministry of Defense starkly contrast those from the "Freedom of Russia" Legion. Following the events of Tuesday evening, the guerrillas shared a video with the warning: "Putin's soldiers should brace for the night."
"We urge our compatriots in the border zone to remain cautious and, if possible, avoid leaving their shelters. Have a peaceful night, look after yourselves! We will maintain our positions and press on. A new day awaits. A new Russia is on the horizon!" - as quoted from their Telegram post.
"Spending the night on our soil"
At 4 a.m. ET, the legionnaires shared an image captioned: "Home is where breathing is easier and rest more comforting. We're spending the night on our soil."
In his interview with Rossiya 1 and RIA Novosti, Putin confirmed the occurrence of the border attack and characterized the assailants as "foreign mercenaries."
"On the state border, the adversary attempted an incursion primarily through sabotage groups; according to the most recent General Staff report, the operation resulted in approximately 300 casualties, including foreign mercenaries," Putin articulated.
The legionnaires reportedly have full control over several locales, including the village of Tiotkino in the Kursk region.
