Today's D Brief: Bakhmut, all but fallen; B-2s, back aloft; Contractor cyber plan; Afghans at the border; And a bit more.
Defense OneNov 25, 2022
The Facts
Two paramilitary groups crossed from Ukraine into Russia's Belgorod region on Monday, overrunning a border checkpoint in the settlement of Kozinka, resulting in armed clashes that injured a number of civilians.
Russian officials alleged the groups were Ukrainian saboteurs and said that the Russian military, the National Guard, and the Federal Security Service were taking "necessary measures to eliminate the enemy." They further alleged the move was initiated to divert focus away from Russia's capture of the Donetsk city of Bakhmut over the weekend.
The Spin
Pro-Russia narrative
These attacks in Russia's Belgorod region were perpetrated by Ukrainian saboteurs with the help of the country's security services. Russian authorities are on scene and are taking the necessary steps to eliminate the threat.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Ukraine has no involvement in these attacks. These movements are being carried out by Russian citizens who support Ukraine's fight against Vladimir Putin's tyranny.
