Unrest and Shelling in Russian Border Regions

Pro-Ukrainian militants from the Freedom of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps claimed to have entered Shebekino on Thursday, stating they were "going to liberate all of Russia, from Belgorod to Vladivostok." The Ukrainian government has denied any involvement with the militants, though one Ukrainian military official has acknowledged "cooperating" with the groups. The attacks have raised concerns that front-line territories in Russia could be vulnerable to attack, and some residents have asked the local governor to declare a state of emergency in the area that will allow them to receive state compensation. The Kremlin has been criticized for its handling of the situation, with some analysts suggesting that the recent attacks on Russian territory could have an impact on the public's perception of the Russian leadership and the war in Ukraine.