President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy is asking Western allies to speed up the delivery of air defense systems and interceptor missiles to prepare for another winter of intensive bombardment, which could become the next critical moment in Kyiv's struggle against the Russian invasion. This was reported by Bloomberg, citing unnamed "sources familiar with the matter," according to UNN.
Details
It is noted that this topic arose during Zelenskyy's talks with European leaders and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at a summit in the Armenian capital, Yerevan, earlier this week.
While this request is not new — Kyiv has consistently pressured allies for air defense systems since Moscow's full-scale invasion in February 2022 — it is now more urgent, as Ukraine's energy and thermal power facilities are becoming increasingly difficult to keep operational after years of Russian airstrikes on civilian infrastructure,
It is pointed out that in the early years of the war, the most significant shifts on the battlefield typically occurred outside the winter months. Since then, the development of drone technology has complicated offensive maneuvers, creating a stalemate on the front lines. Therefore, winter attacks on urban centers, transport, and energy infrastructure have become a vital part of the hostilities.
According to sources informed about the discussion, Zelenskyy told his allies that he expects another Russian offensive this summer, but Kremlin forces have so far failed to make significant gains and are suffering massive losses,
The authors add that given that peace talks have reached a deadlock, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is likely betting that the conflict in the Middle East will "divert weapons away from Kyiv," making the country particularly vulnerable during the cold months.
Recall
Ukraine possesses specific documents from the Russian General Staff confirming that the occupiers themselves admit their inability to fulfill the tasks set by their political leadership. Despite this, they plan further offensive operations, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported following a briefing by the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service, Oleh Ivashchenko.
Syrskyi told whether Russia's announced spring offensive has begun31.03.26, 11:56