Russia is blocking entry to several villages in the border region of Belgorod after repeated attacks from Ukraine, announces Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov.
Over 200 people have been killed and many more injured by Ukrainian bombs in the border areas south of Belgorod since Russia launched its invasion war against Ukraine in February 2022, according to Russian authorities.
Russia is now setting up border controls around 14 villages near the border to prevent people from entering the areas. Only adult men, wearing bulletproof vests and helmets, will be allowed in, according to Gladkov.
In May, Russia launched a large-scale ground offensive in Kharkiv, on the Ukrainian side of the border, to create a buffer zone against further shelling. Russia's Kharkiv offensive has led to hundreds of deaths over the summer, including many civilians.
However, Ukraine has continued its attacks, and as recently as last week, four people were reported killed and another 20 injured in a Ukrainian raid.
The water and power supply has also been knocked out in many villages, according to local authorities.
The restrictions – which will be introduced next week – are the most comprehensive measures imposed on the Russian civilian population since the war broke out.
The decision to close the villages came a day after Ukraine's President Zelensky said he welcomed Russia to a future ceasefire meeting, reports AFP.
