Deployment of Chechen Fighters to the Russian-Ukrainian Border

Chechen Republic Head Ramzan Kadyrov stated today that Chechen fighters have deployed in the Belgorod region of Russia to prevent attacks from "Ukrainian sabotage groups." Kadyrov mentioned that fighters from the "Zabad-Akhmat" battalion have been stationed near the border village of Nikhotevka and a checkpoint in the Gryazovets area. He added in a post on Telegram, "Residents of the areas adjacent to the border with Ukraine need not worry... Anyone who trespasses our borders will face a devastating response." Ukraine denies involvement in cross-border attacks, describing them as a direct result of Russia's invasion in February 2022.