195 soldiers killed

Russia reports fighting in the border region with Ukraine

Destroyed cars after an attack in Belgorod

(Bild: AFP)

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported renewed fighting in the border region with Ukraine on Thursday. Ukrainian forces had attempted to enter the Russian region of Belgorod. However, the attack was repelled and "up to 195 soldiers" were killed, it was reported.

In addition, five tanks and four armored vehicles were destroyed. Residents of Belgorod reported explosions on Thursday morning. The governor spoke of drone and missile attacks being repelled, and there was also talk of a dead woman and several injured. Up to 195 soldiers are said to have been killed. The information could not be independently verified.

Destroyed cars after the attack on Thursday

(Bild: AFP)

A drone

(Bild: AFP)

However, other sources such as Russian military bloggers also reported fighting in Belgorod and the neighboring Kursk region. As reported, pro-Ukrainian fighters from Russia had announced attacks on the border area on Wednesday. Independent Russian media referred to announcements by the paramilitary organizations Russian Volunteer Corps and the Russian Freedom Legion. Both organizations are fighting on the side of Ukraine, but are made up of Russian nationalists.

Already causing a stir in the summer
Last summer, they caused a stir when they advanced from Ukraine into Russian territory, sometimes for miles, and fought battles with the army there. At the beginning of this week, they made another breakthrough, which was quickly suppressed according to official Russian reports (see video above).

Belgorod borders Ukraine to the west and the Russian region of Kursk to the north. Despite these attacks, US military experts have now warned against a sudden breakthrough by Russian forces. The current front line is vulnerable and the Ukrainian troops have weak points. The war has already lasted two years.