Russia cautioned Kyiv on Wednesday that it will respond “extremely” violently to any further intrusions, as Moscow sent jets and artillery to fend off an armed group that crossed over from Ukraine. As Russia pondered the most significant attack on its soil since Moscow’s operation in Ukraine began in February 2022, the leader of the Wagner mercenary organization estimated that 10,000 detainees he had recruited were killed in Ukraine.
After two days of battle in Belgorod’s southern sector, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu addressed military officers.
Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov stated on Wednesday that multiple drones had attacked the region overnight. Regional officials report that 13 individuals were injured in the area due to the intense artillery and mortar bombardment.
During the clashes, Russian soldiers killed “more than 70 Ukrainian terrorists” and destroyed numerous armed vehicles, according to Moscow, although AFP could not independently verify the allegations. Russia said that the remaining fighters were forced back across the border.
The suspected perpetrators of the invasion gave interviews to Ukrainian media on Wednesday, hailing the operation’s “success” and highlighting Russia’s defence weaknesses.
Denis Kapustin, a member of the Russian Volunteer Corps, claimed the mission.
Kapustin, often known as “White Rex,” is well-known in Russian hooligan and far-right circles.
While Ukraine has denied involvement in the assault, Kapustin claims Kyiv “encouraged” it without providing arms or supplies.
cc: Punch Ng
