Indian embassy advises citizens to leave three Russian regions following cross-border attacks

New Delhi: India has issued an urgent advisory for its citizens in Russia, urging them to leave the Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk regions following a surprise cross-border attack by Ukrainian forces. The advisory, released by the Indian embassy in Moscow on Wednesday, cites "recent security incidents" in these areas, recommending Indian nationals to take necessary precautions and temporarily relocate to safer locations.

The advisory did not specifically mention the ongoing conflict between Russian and Ukrainian forces. However, it comes in the wake of a significant escalation in hostilities, with Ukrainian troops reportedly advancing into the Kursk region by one to two kilometers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the capture of 100 Russian servicemen as part of this offensive.

The war runs deep

"In view of the recent security incidents in the Bryansk, Belgorod, and Kursk regions, Indian nationals are advised to take necessary precautions and temporarily relocate outside these regions," the Indian embassy stated. The embassy also provided contact information for those needing assistance, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

This marks a notable shift in Ukraine’s military strategy, as the country has largely focused on regaining territories occupied by Russian forces since the invasion began in February 2022. The cross-border attacks have forced tens of thousands of Russians to flee their homes, prompting authorities in the Belgorod region to declare an emergency.

Ukraine's take on the situation 

Iryna Vereshchuk, Ukraine’s minister for reintegration of temporarily occupied territories, indicated that the operation in Kursk is aimed at securing Ukraine’s border regions, particularly the Sumy area, which has been the target of Russian missile and artillery strikes. She stated that Ukrainian forces are "creating a security zone on the territory of the Russian Federation adjacent to the territory of Ukraine."

With approximately 20,000 Indian nationals currently residing in Russia, the exact number in the affected regions remains unclear. However, the advisory underscores the potential risks as the conflict expands beyond Ukrainian borders.