Russians complain about missile attack in Belgorod region
Illustrative photo: Russia claims a missile attack on the Belgorod region (Getty Images)
Explosions were heard late on January 3 in Russia’s Belgorod region amid a missile threat warning. The region's air defense systems were active, according to Belgorod Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov and local sources.
A missile threat warning was issued across the region around 10:30 PM on Friday (Moscow time). Half an hour later, an all-clear signal was announced.
Around midnight, the Belgorod governor stated that air defense was active in the Prokhorovsky district (north of Belgorod). Several air targets were reportedly shot down.
The Russian official claimed that a person in the village of Prelestnoye (near the administrative border between Belgorod and Kursk regions) was injured and had received medical assistance.
According to the governor, there was damage to the power lines in the settlement of Prokhorovka, and power was lost in several streets. Gladkov reported that a gas pipeline in a private household was allegedly damaged in the village of Mikhaylovka.
Meanwhile, Belgorod-based sources mention a possible ballistic strike and report explosions near the city of Belgorod. Several ATACMS missiles were allegedly headed in that direction. Local Telegram channels also claim that some of the “downed” munitions are detonating north of the regional center.
Explosions in Russia's Belgorod region
Notably, explosions have been heard in Belgorod. Russian forces often use this region to launch strikes on Ukrainian territory, including attacks on Kharkiv.
For instance, in September, residents of Belgorod reported explosions and alleged missile impacts. The Russian side blamed Ukraine for the shelling.
At the same time, explosions in Belgorod are not uncommon due to Russian aircraft flying to bomb Ukraine but accidentally releasing bombs over their own territory. The most recent such incident occurred in late November when Russian military planes over Belgorod dropped three FAB-250 bombs.
