Russia is already using 2026-grade missiles and new tactics, Zelenskyy
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Russian forces used updated tactics during a nighttime strike on Ukraine and deployed missiles manufactured in 2026, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"I held a special energy coordination meeting. All government officials involved in addressing the aftermath were present, along with regional authorities, the military, and representatives of the energy sector. Restoration work has already begun in all regions that were hit," Zelenskyy said.
According to him, the most difficult situation at the moment is in Kyiv, parts of the Kyiv region, and Kharkiv.
"We also discussed the situation in the Dnipro region, in Zaporizhzhia and the surrounding area, in Sumy and Chernihiv regions, and in Odesa. Restoration work is ongoing in the Rivne region," the Ukrainian President added.
The Commander of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported on the use of air defense systems to intercept Russian missiles, as well as on the first confirmed details of the enemy’s updated tactics.
"I instructed the military to immediately contact our partners, first and foremost the United States, and to provide them with detailed information about the changes in Russia’s strike tactics and the specific focus of the attack on energy infrastructure," Zelenskyy noted.
According to available information, at least some of the missiles used by Russia in this strike were produced this year. That is why it is crucial that global sanctions against Russia and efforts to block the supply of critical components actually work.
"I instructed the Prime Minister of Ukraine and the Minister of Energy to provide a full analysis by 6:00 p.m. today on restoration timelines in each region and on the resources required," Zelenskyy concluded.
On the night of December 20, Russian forces carried out a combined attack on Ukraine, using drones and missiles of various types.
The situation remains most difficult in the capital region — Kyiv and the surrounding area — following the massive nighttime strike. Repair crews from other regions have been deployed to help restore electricity and heat supplies.
More details on the combined Russian attack on Ukraine overnight on January 20 are available in the RBC-Ukraine report.
