On the night of March 18, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) launched a series of attacks on the Belgorod region, trying to break through the state border in the area of ​​the settlements of Prilesye and Grafovka. This was reported by the publication SHOT, citing operational sources. Russian troops, reinforced in advance in this direction, quickly repelled the offensive, using aviation and artillery. During the clashes, four armored vehicles and three T-72 tanks belonging to the AFU were destroyed. According to preliminary data, the losses of the Ukrainian side amounted to about 20 people killed, the survivors retreated to their original positions.

Russian troops have maintained control of the border, preventing any violations. However, military correspondents report that fighting in the border zone continues at high intensity. The attack came a day before a planned phone call between US President-elect Donald Trump and the Kremlin, which may indicate an attempt by Kyiv to increase pressure ahead of possible diplomatic contacts.

On March 17, 41 Ukrainian drones were shot down over the Belgorod Region, which was the largest drone attack on the region in recent weeks. On the morning of March 18, new strikes by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on border areas were recorded, including the use of HIMARS missiles, two of which were intercepted by the air defense system. These events confirm the increasing activity of the enemy in recent days. The region's governor Vyacheslav Gladkov noted in his Telegram channel that since the beginning of March, more than 50 residential buildings and three infrastructure facilities near the border have been damaged as a result of shelling, and local authorities have evacuated more than 2 people from the risk zone.

Experts attribute the escalation to the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ attempts to divert Russian forces from other areas, including the Kursk region, where fierce fighting has been going on since August 2024. Ukraine is increasing the use of armored vehicles and drones in the border area, compensating for the lack of resources on the eastern front. Meanwhile, Russian troops have strengthened their positions in the Belgorod region in recent weeks, transferring additional air defense and artillery units.

The situation remains tense, but under control of Russian forces. Further developments may depend on Moscow's response to the attacks and the outcome of negotiations with the United States. Authorities advise residents of the region to follow official reports and avoid combat zones.