Belgorod, Russia – August 31, 2024 — Ukrainian shelling in the Belgorod region has led to a tragic loss of life and a significant number of injuries, with five civilians confirmed dead and 46 others wounded, regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov reported on his official Telegram channel on Thursday.
The shelling targeted both Belgorod city and the surrounding region, leaving many residents in shock and mourning. Governor Gladkov extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, acknowledging the heavy toll the conflict has taken on the local community. “My heartfelt condolences go to all relatives and close ones,” he said.
Of the 46 injured, 37 remain hospitalized, with seven of them being children. One child, whose condition is described as severe, underwent emergency surgery following the attack. Medical teams are closely monitoring the child’s progress, though further updates on his condition are awaited. Gladkov emphasized that every effort is being made to save the child’s life and provide the best possible care.
Two adult patients are also in critical condition and are being prepared for transfer to Moscow for specialized treatment. The governor reassured residents that the regional government is maintaining constant communication with the Russian Health Ministry to ensure that all necessary medical assistance is provided to those affected.
“We stay in constant contact with the Health Ministry; all necessary aid will be provided,” Gladkov stated, underscoring the importance of coordinated efforts in responding to the emergency.
The shelling has sent shockwaves through Belgorod and surrounding areas, where residents have been living under the persistent threat of cross-border strikes since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensified. Belgorod, located near the Ukrainian border, has seen repeated shelling incidents in recent months, with civilians increasingly caught in the crossfire.
Local authorities have been working to bolster emergency services and infrastructure to respond to these ongoing threats. Hospitals in the Belgorod region have been placed on high alert, with additional medical staff and resources mobilized to handle the influx of patients. The regional government is also coordinating with federal authorities to assess the damage and provide support to affected families.
Residents of Belgorod have expressed both grief and resilience in the aftermath of the shelling. Many have taken to social media to share their experiences, with images of damaged buildings and emergency responders circulating widely. The atmosphere in the region remains tense, as people brace for further escalations in the conflict.
The attack is part of a broader escalation in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides continuing to exchange artillery fire across the border. While the situation remains fluid, the humanitarian impact on civilians in border regions like Belgorod is growing increasingly severe.
Governor Gladkov concluded his statement with a call for unity and vigilance, urging residents to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities. “We must stand together in these difficult times,” he said.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the shelling, the focus remains on providing care to the wounded and supporting the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic attack.