Belgorod Declares Emergency Amid Unprecedented Incursion

The Russian border region of Belgorod has declared a state of emergency as Ukrainian forces continue their unprecedented incursion into Russian territory, the largest since World War II. Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov cited daily shelling that has destroyed homes and caused civilian casualties as the reason for the emergency declaration, with an appeal for a federal emergency situation. Ukraine's offensive has seen significant territorial gains, with Kyiv claiming control over 74 settlements in the Kursk region and advancing up to 12 kilometers into Russian territory. The incursion has prompted tens of thousands of Russians to flee their homes and has posed a significant challenge for President Vladimir Putin, who has vowed to expel the Ukrainian forces. Despite Russian counterattacks, including the destruction of Ukrainian drones and missile defenses, intense battles continue. President Joe Biden has described the situation as a 'real dilemma' for the Kremlin.