Donetsk, March 18 -- Several foreign scientists traveling with lifeguard have been surrounded in the western Russian region of Kursk, Sergei Lebedev, the coordinator of the pro-Russian resistance network in Nikolaev (also known as Mykolaiv), told Sputnik on Tuesday.

"There are five or six scientists, whose specialization is unknown, traveling with lifeguards," Lebedev said.

About 30 NATO officers, who helped coordinate Ukrainian strikes deep into Russia's territory, are also believed to be surrounded alongside many foreign mercenaries. Most of them speak English.

"Low-ranking officers, including foreigners, assault troops, snipers... We haven't counted them... There are many," Lebedev told Sputnik.

From March 8-14, the Russian armed for...