A Russian border region facing Ukrainian shelling and drone attacks has announced the closure of schools and colleges as part of a major evacuation plan. The ongoing conflict has intensified as Kyiv's forces continue their campaign of long-range strikes to exert pressure on the Kremlin.
Due to a shortage of ammunition supplies along the 1,000-kilometer front line, Ukraine has been forced to adopt a more defensive stance, as promised Western supplies have not been fully delivered. Despite this, Ukraine has been targeting oil facilities deep inside Russia and aiming to unsettle Russia's border regions.
Authorities in the Belgorod region near the border have decided to close schools early ahead of the upcoming holidays, following continued shelling from Ukraine that has resulted in casualties among the local population. Schools in and around the city of Belgorod will be closed from Wednesday to Friday, with universities and colleges shifting to remote learning and various institutions remaining shut.
The evacuation plan includes the relocation of approximately 9,000 children from the region, following a recent presidential election in Russia where President Vladimir Putin secured an overwhelming victory. Despite the attacks, the voting turnout in the Belgorod region was high, with Putin receiving significant support.
In response to the situation, Putin has pledged support for civilians in Belgorod who have suffered losses. The Defense Ministry reported intercepting Ukrainian rockets over the region, resulting in casualties. Ukrainian drones also targeted a city in the Saratov region, further escalating tensions.
Experts suggest that long-range strikes on Russia are a strategic move to challenge the Russian state, but emphasize the need for continued Western support to prevent Russian advancements. The European Union is considering using frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, while the U.S. Congress remains divided on providing additional military assistance.
Amidst these developments, the Czech government has taken steps to procure artillery shells for Ukraine, with plans to deliver a substantial quantity by June. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as the conflict in Ukraine unfolds.
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