Five die in Ukrainian strike on Belgorod, as Russian raid harms journalists

Kyiv and Moscow trade attacks overnight as Russia sends more artillery units to Kursk region to push back Ukraine’s army.

At least five people have been killed and 13 others wounded during an overnight Ukrainian strike on Belgorod, according to officials in the Russian region.

Regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov announced the death toll on the Telegram messaging app on Sunday morning, saying three minors were among those wounded in the attack on the settlement of Rakitnoye.

“We will definitely help everyone who suffered,” Gladkov said, adding, “Our task now is to endure, to overcome trials, to cope with trouble.”

Kyiv has increased its strikes inside Russian territory after launching a surprise ground offensive into Russia’s Kursk region two weeks ago.

In mid-August, Gladkov declared a state of emergency in the region due to Ukrainian bombardments.

In response, Russia’s Ministry of Defence said it was sending more troops to the region to defend it in light of the Kursk incursion.

The ministry announced on Sunday that it sent more artillery units to Kursk to aid soldiers in pushing back Ukrainian forces.