Ukrainian strikes hit energy facilities in Russian region’s capital – governor
Belgorod Region in western Russia is facing serious water and energy supply shortages following what its governor, Vyacheslav Gladkov, has described as Ukrainian strikes targeting local infrastructure.
At least two civilians have been injured in a Ukrainian missile strike on Belgorod, according to Gladkov.
Blackouts have been reported in a number of Belgorod districts including downtown, according to local Telegram channels. Cuts to the water supply have also been reported in the city and the nearby area. Plumes of smoke are visible in the regional capital, according to some reports.
The extent of the damage is still being assessed, according to the governor. He also said there was a continued threat of airstrikes across the region and urged people to avoid going out.
Blackouts have also been reported in the city of Stary Oskol, located more than 150 kilometers away from Belgorod, the Russian media have said.
Ukraine has intensified its strikes targeting civilian areas and infrastructure inside Russia over the past months. Kiev’s forces often relied on drones in such attacks. Earlier this week, Gladkov also reported power and water supply disruptions in parts of the region following a major Ukrainian drone strike.
The attack overnight on Wednesday left seven civilians injured in Belgorod Region alone. The Russian military reported intercepting a total of 89 drones over Moscow, as well as Belgorod, Kursk, Volgograd, and Rostov regions, and over the Crimean Peninsula and the Black Sea.
Moscow has repeatedly denounced the raids as “terrorism” and launched retaliatory strikes on Ukrainian military sites, including drone assembly facilities.
