Military expert Zgurets: Russia's Belgorod region protection myths are being destroyed

He stated this on Espreso. 

The expert underscored that the population once again felt neglected by the authorities.

"The recent raids conducted by Russian volunteers have exposed the ineffectiveness of the Russian army and border troops. They have created a new reality that requires a response from the Russian army. It is evident that no defensive systems have been established, allowing anyone to enter. These raids are debunking the myths propagated by the Russian side regarding their ability to protect their own population," stated Zgurets.

Currently, there is no available information on whether the raiding operations of the Freedom of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps will continue in Belgorod and the surrounding region.

"In terms of tactics, these raids typically last up to three days, with the volunteers relying on their own fuel and ammunition supplies. Based on tactical calculations, the volunteers should have already returned to Ukrainian territory within this timeframe, but there is no confirmation of this yet," he added.

Zgurets also emphasized that the raids are carried out without the seizure of Russian territories.

• On May 22, the Freedom of Russia Legion and the Russian Volunteer Corps declared the liberation of Kozinka and Gora-Podol settlements in the Belgorod region of the Russian Federation, as part of their efforts to establish a demilitarized zone along the border. Their advance units also entered Grayvoron. In response, a counter-terrorist operation regime was implemented in the region, and the evacuation of nuclear ammunition is underway.

• On the evening of May 22, Russian media reported attacks on administrative buildings in Belgorod, including the FSB and Ministry of Internal Affairs buildings. Drone strikes on administrative buildings in Grayvoron and Borisovka were also reported.

• By the evening of May 23, the counter-terrorist operation regime was lifted in the Belgorod region. Subsequently, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have allegedly destroyed 70 "terrorists," forcing the remaining ones back into Ukrainian territory. On the other hand, the Russian Volunteer Corps asserted that they suffered no losses.