Volunteer Militias Enter Russia, Battle Unfolds in Border Regions

Many videos displaying tanks with unidentified flags and assorted military vehicles have surfaced online, showcasing activity in the Belgorod and Kursk regions. Groups known as the "Freedom of Russia" Legion, "RDK," and the "Siberian Battalion" have declared their entry into these border areas of Russia, where a battle is reportedly underway.

War in Ukraine: Follow our live coverage for the latest updates

Further footage has emerged online depicting tanks brandishing unfamiliar flags and assorted technical gear. Additionally, residents from the Kursk region have reported hearing gunfire in the Tetkino vicinity.

The Russian Telegram channel Baza, quoting a "military source," shared news of an alleged incursion by "Ukrainian DRG" forces in the Belgorod and Kursk regions.

"Several armed factions have attempted to cross the border using pickups, with the support of mortar and artillery fire, according to the Wargonzo project. During an attempted assault, the enemy's tanks were also observed advancing towards the border and opening fire. The conflict is still ongoing," the report stated.

Ilya Ponomarev, linked with the "Freedom of Russia" Legion, stated that the RDK and the "Siberian Battalion" have entered Russian territory in the Kursk and Belgorod regions in a "joint operation" of volunteer forces.

"The Freedom of Russia Legion and the Siberian Battalion have crossed the Russian border as part of a cooperative initiative and have made their way into the Kursk and Belgorod regions. The Lozova Rudka border crossing in the Belgorod region is now entirely under the control of the liberation forces. Presently, an exchange of gunfire is occurring in Tyotkino in the Kursk region," Ponomarev remarked.

Following these developments, the "Freedom of Russia" Legion released an official statement regarding the events within the Russian Federation. Near the Ukrainian-Russian border, the legion addressed its citizens, asserting, "We have come to free you from the dictatorship, a terrorist regime that has seized power." The volunteers also directed a warning at Putin, declaring their intention to head "to the elections" in the Russian Federation.

"Like our fellow countrymen, we in the Legion aspire to see a Russia freed from Putin's tyranny. However, we don't just dream; we are actively working to realize these aspirations. We are reclaiming our homeland from the regime, bit by bit. Russians will live without fear; they won't dread a knock on the door and will express their thoughts freely. Russians will have the liberty to vote according to their preference, not out of coercion. Russians will live in freedom," a Legion fighter expressed.

Source: tsn-ua