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Russia is preparing to evacuate approximately 9,000 children from its Belgorod region due to ongoing shelling from Ukraine.

This action, disclosed by regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov, is aimed at moving these children further east, away from the immediate dangers posed by the proximity to the Ukraine border.

The evacuation plan follows statements from Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the Kremlin’s intent to establish a buffer zone. This move seeks to shield the border regions from the increased frequency of long-range Ukrainian strikes and cross-border raids. These military actions by Ukraine have targeted vital infrastructure deep within Russia, including oil refineries and depots.

These regions have also witnessed attacks from Ukraine-based Russian opponents of Putin and the Kremlin, further destabilizing the area. One incident included a recent incursion in the Belgorod and Kursk regions, resulting in reported casualties on both sides. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, 30 fighters were neutralized by Moscow’s military and security forces