Russia orders evacuation near Ukraine border amid ongoing war

Russia ordered on Monday the evacuation of villages within 15 kilometers of its border with Ukraine in the Kursk region, citing "security" concerns. This follows Ukrainian military attacks in the region since early August.

While no direct fighting has yet occurred in these areas, the decision coincides with recent announcements by Moscow that its forces have recaptured around 12 towns from Ukrainian control.

Kursk Governor Alexei Smirnov confirmed the mandatory evacuations, urging residents to comply with the authorities' recommendations. The exact number of affected individuals remains unclear.

This move comes as tensions continue to escalate along the Russian-Ukrainian border.