Russian Forces Mine Belgorod Dams for Possible False Flag Operations

Russian troops are actively mining dams near Belgorod, likely in preparation for potential false flag operations aimed at placing the blame on Ukraine for the resulting environmental and humanitarian consequences.

Vitalii Sarantsev, spokesperson for the Kharkiv Operational Tactical Group, shared this information on Telegram.

Sarantsev explained that, in addition to constructing fortifications around Belgorod, Russian forces are also mining both general and specialized water supply systems.

"This could be seen as a “bookmark” for the future—should the situation change dramatically, the Russians might resort to blowing up dams to hinder the advance of Ukrainian forces. Alternatively, Russia may be setting the stage for false flag operations at hydroelectric facilities, allowing them to attribute the ensuing environmental and humanitarian fallout to Ukraine," Sarantsev said.

He emphasized that such actions could be used to rally the Russian populace and distract from the country's internal issues.

The destruction of hydroelectric facilities could lead to significant flooding, inundating communities and triggering an environmental disaster.

On June 6, 2023, Russian forces blew up the dam of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Station, causing large scale environmental disaster. Ukraine warned of a possible international-scale catastrophe as early as fall 2022.

Earlier in July, Russia has accused Ukraine of preparing to destroy the Kyiv Hydroelectric Power Station and the Kaniv Reservoir.