Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
It’s the same Governor that slammed Russian citizens for leaving cars outside during Ukrainian shelling in the hopes of getting a new one.
It’s the same Governor that slammed Russian citizens for leaving cars outside during Ukrainian shelling in the hopes of getting a new one.
What is happening?
Vyacheslav Gladkov, governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, has proposed delaying repairs on homes and vehicles owned by residents who left the country during its invasion of Ukraine.
“Why Should We Help Those Who Left?”
Gladkov expressed skepticism over whether citizens who relocated abroad should receive the same level of aid as those who remained.
Why should we spend the same amount on those who left, while others stayed and suffered under extremely difficult conditions?” he asked.
Doubts Over Equal Government Support
The governor said he had “serious doubts” about whether the government should “help everyone equally,” particularly when it comes to those with dual citizenship.
He suggested such individuals should seek assistance from the other country whose passport they hold.
No Repairs Until Further Notice
Until Russia’s war in Ukraine ends and a dedicated committee decides how to handle such cases, Gladkov declared that properties belonging to absent residents “should remain as they are.”
A Region Under Fire
Located on Russia’s western border with Ukraine, the Belgorod region has faced frequent shelling since early in the war. In January,
Gladkov even floated the idea of evacuating the city of Belgorod due to escalating danger.
Ukrainian Pressure Tactics in March Offensive
In late March, Kyiv launched a limited offensive into the Belgorod region.
Analysts believe the move aimed to pressure Moscow into a ceasefire during peace talks, adding to the instability of the border zone.
Accusations of Exploiting Compensation Programs
Gladkov also accused some residents of deliberately placing their cars in harm’s way to claim compensation.
He claimed individuals would leave old vehicles exposed during shelling in hopes of receiving financial payouts.
“Just Park It Outside—Maybe We’ll Get Paid”
The governor paraphrased supposed conversations among locals:
“Our village is getting bombed—let’s put the car outside. Maybe we’ll get hit, and at least we’ll get some money.”
These comments stirred backlash on Russian social media.
Urging Residents to Secure Their Vehicles
To curb opportunistic claims, Gladkov instructed local officials to advise residents during door-to-door visits to keep their cars safely stored in garages rather than out in the open.
Alleged Abuse of Relocation Programs
He also accused groups of residents of fraudulently demanding relocation.
According to Gladkov, some communities are organizing online to request state-funded moves under false pretenses.
“Let’s Ask for Relocation Before the War Ends”
On social networks, Gladkov claimed, residents say things like:
“Let’s ask for relocation, otherwise the war will end, and we’ll still be stuck in these old houses.”
He warned this behavior was appearing in multiple localities.
Criminal Charges Could Follow, Warns Governor
Gladkov ended his remarks with a stern warning: government assistance should not be taken for granted, and deliberate manipulation of support schemes could lead to criminal prosecution.