Chechen forces deployed to border with Ukraine

Chechen forces have been deployed to Russia's border province of Belgorod to guard against attacks by "Ukrainian sabotage groups".

Ramzan Kadyrov, leader of Russia's Chechen Republic, said on June 15 that members of the Akhmat special forces regiment had been deployed to the border village of Nekhoteevka and a checkpoint in the Graivoron district of Belgorod province, where the cross-border attack took place in May.

"Residents of the territories bordering Ukraine can rest assured. The Akhmat special forces and other units will ensure their safety. Anyone who violates our borders will receive a swift response," Mr. Kadyrov posted on Telegram.

Chechen Republic leader Ramzan Kadyrov speaks about Russia's military campaign in Ukraine in Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, in February. Photo: Reuters

The Belgorod region has reported a series of cross-border raids by pro-Ukrainian groups over the past month. Kiev has denied involvement in the attacks, saying they are a result of a Russian campaign.

"Now the border is closed to bandits. Traitors must be punished to the fullest extent of the law. Russian servicemen will do their utmost to implement these things," the Chechen leader added.

The Russian Defense Ministry signed a contract on June 12 with the Akhmat special forces, a paramilitary group often seen as Kadyrov’s personal army. Akhmat commander Apty Alaudinov, who signed the contract, said the unit had “prepared and sent tens of thousands of volunteers” to Ukraine over the past 15 months.

Akhmat special forces, which joined Russian units in storming the city of Lysychansk, Ukraine’s last stronghold in Lugansk Oblast, last year, will be used to prevent “sabotage by Ukrainian armed groups” in border areas of Russia’s Belgorod region, Kadyrov said on June 13.

Location Belgorod Oblast, Russia. Graphics: FT

Huyen Le (According to Reuters, Oops Top )

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