In Photos: War Creeps Closer to Russia's Belgorod and Kursk Regions

As the war in Ukraine enters its 16th month, Russian regions on the country’s southwestern border have found themselves pulled ever deeper into the conflict, experiencing shelling, drone attacks and even armed incursions.

The frequency of the strikes on Russian border regions have revealed Moscow’s inability to ensure the security of its own territory.

The Belgorod and Kursk regions – both neighboring Ukraine – have been subject to intensified attacks in recent weeks as Kyiv prepares for a major counteroffensive against Russian forces.

While life continues in these regions, it is anything but normal. Residents are constantly reminded of the ongoing fighting by bomb shelter signs, posters with instructions on what to do in case of an artillery attack and military recruitment advertisements.

Here’s a closer look at scenes from Belgorod and Kursk.