AFTER KURSK, UKRAINE SHELLS RUSSIA’S BELGOROD

Why in the news?

Following their incursion into the Kursk region, Ukrainian forces have launched heavy shelling in Russia’s Belgorod region, leading to the declaration of an emergency by local authorities.

Key Developments

  • Shelling: The shelling in Belgorod is reported to be one of the most intense attacks since the conflict began, with homes destroyed and civilian casualties reported.
  • Evacuations: More than 100,000 people have been evacuated from the Kursk and Belgorod regions due to the ongoing conflict.

AFTER KURSK, UKRAINE SHELLS RUSSIA’S BELGOROD

About Belgorod

  • Location: Belgorod is a city in western Russia, near the border with Ukraine, and has strategic significance due to its proximity to the conflict zone.
  • Historical Context: The region has been relatively peaceful since World War II but is now experiencing significant military activity due to its location near the Ukraine border.

About Kursk Region

  • On Russia’s southwest border, the city of Kursk serves as the administrative hub of the Kursk oblast, or region.
  • It is located in the middle of Russia’s European region.
  • It is situated roughly 280 miles (450 km) south of Moscow along the upper Seym River.
  • Because of the rich soil, it is situated in the region referred to as the Black Earth territory.
  • The climate is classified as moderately continental.