Ukrainian drone attack on Belgorod claims 21 lives, Russia vows retaliation
A Ukrainian source cited by the BBC stated that more than 70 drones were fired at Russian military targets in retaliation to Russia's attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilians. On Friday, Russian bombings in Ukraine led to an estimated 40 deaths.
9:26 AM EST, December 31, 2023
"One of the Most Devastating Attacks"
Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported that among the fatalities were three children. The BBC emphasized this incident as one of the most devastating attacks on Russian territory since it initiated the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The Belgorod Oblast, which borders Ukraine — along with other Russian border areas — has been subject to shelling and drone attacks throughout this year. Russian authorities attribute these actions to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as noted by Reuters.
Russia Announces Retaliation
The Russian Ministry of Defense accused Ukraine of a massive missile attack on Belgorod. It warned that "this crime will not go unpunished".
The Ukrainian Pravda portal quoted a source from the security service, which attributed civilian casualties to the "unskilled actions of the Russian air defense and intentional, premeditated provocations".
