Russian city near Ukraine border evacuates 300 following escalating attacks

The authorities of Belgorod Oblast have affirmed that they initiated the "temporary evacuation" of about 300 residents.

The evacuated individuals from Belgorod were transported and accommodated in various centers farther from the border.

Earlier, the Russian authorities had decided to prolong the school holidays in Belgorod Oblast. The break, initially set to conclude on January 9, was extended by 10 days. During this period, secondary and higher schools will continue their classes remotely.

Due to the rising risk of shelling, the Russian Orthodox Church has issued an order to cancel night Christmas services. This affects churches located not only in Belgorod but also those within a 12-mile radius of the border.

In the past weeks, Ukraine has stepped up drone attacks on the Russian border regions, including Belgorod Oblast, in retaliation to massive Russian bombardments.

The most significant attacks occurred on December 30 when Belgorod was targeted. As a result of this incident, 25 people were killed.