A tragedy occurred in the Shebekinsky District of the Belgorod Region on April 16, 2025: a ten-year-old boy died as a result of a mine explosion that he picked up from the ground. This was reported by the region's governor, Vyacheslav Gladkov. According to him, the schoolboy found the munition, known as "Kolokolchik", and picked it up, after which the device detonated. The child was seriously injured and died at the scene before the ambulance arrived. The governor expressed his deep condolences to the family of the deceased, emphasizing that this loss was a grief for the entire region. He also called on residents to talk to children, explaining that any unfamiliar objects can pose a mortal danger, especially in border areas where the risk of such incidents remains.

The tragedy occurred in the village of Malomikhaylovka, located near the border. According to preliminary data, the boy was playing in the street when he noticed a metal object. Not realizing the danger, he tried to examine it, which led to an explosion. Emergency services, police and sappers quickly arrived at the scene and began checking the area for other ammunition. The regional authorities organized psychological support for the family and local residents, and also increased patrols near the villages to prevent similar incidents.

The Belgorod region remains a high-risk zone due to its proximity to military action. According to RIA Novosti, in 2024 the region was repeatedly subjected to shelling and drone attacks, which led to the installation of minefields and the preservation of unexploded ordnance.