On 15 February 2024, Ukraine fired several missiles at Russia’s Belgorod Oblast which borders the country. According to Russian officials, fourteen missiles were shot down but one hit and "heavily damaged" a shopping center in Belgorod city. Seven civilians, including a one-year-old girl, were killed, while 18 others were injured. Another missile struck a sports stadium.[1][2]
Background
Belgorod lies about 30 km (19 miles) from the border with Ukraine. On 30 December 2023, Belgorod was shelled by Ukrainian forces, killing 25 civilians and injuring 108.[3] The Russian Defense Ministry called the strikes a "terrorist attack" that would "not go unpunished",[4] launching 49 drones at Ukrainian cites the following days in retaliation.[5]
Strike
Russian state media claimed that Ukraine fired several missiles at Belgorod Oblast and that 14 were shot down but one hit and "heavily damaged" a shopping center in Belgorod city killing seven civilians, including a one-year-old girl, and injuring 18 others. Another missile struck a sports stadium.[6] Videos posted on social media showed several ambulances parked outside a heavily damaged shopping centre with shattered windows.[7] Russia claimed the missiles were fired from a RM-70 multiple rocket launcher.[8] Ukraine has not commented on the strikes.[citation needed]
