Russia sets record for ballistic missile launches at Ukraine in January
Illustrative photo: Patriot air defense system (Getty Images)
In January, Russian forces launched 91 ballistic missiles at Ukraine — the highest monthly figure since the start of the full-scale war. Against this backdrop, Ukraine is stepping up cooperation with its allies to strengthen air defense systems, according to the Ministry of Defense.
Read also: Empty Patriot launchers, Ukraine faced air defense gaps amid Russia's energy strikes — FT
Ukraine to accelerate deliveries of Patriot missiles
The Ministry of Defense reported that it is working to speed up the delivery of missiles for MIM-104 Patriot surface-to-air missile systems — the most effective air defense systems in service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
During the latest Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting, an agreement was reached on the urgent transfer of missiles from European partners’ stockpiles.
Targets already destroyed by Patriot
According to the Ministry, since the start of the full-scale war, Patriot systems have intercepted nearly all known types of aerial targets, including Su-34 fighter-bombers, Kh-101, Kh-555, and Kalibr cruise missiles, as well as Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles and Zircon hypersonic missiles.
Scale of attacks on the energy sector
Since the beginning of 2026, Russian forces have carried out over 200 attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The Kremlin’s main goal remains to destabilize the situation in the country and force its leadership to make concessions.
Zelenskyy on the air defense situation
Ukraine has repeatedly called on Western partners to accelerate the delivery of air defense systems and their missiles.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that delays in arms deliveries directly affect the level of protection for critical infrastructure amid constant missile and drone attacks.
The head of state also noted that the Defense Forces have significantly strengthened the protection of Ukrainian cities against Russian drones, but in some directions, this remains insufficient.
Following another Russian attack, Zelenskyy reported holding a strict meeting, ordering the reinforcement of air defense fire groups, while expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of the Air Forces in certain regions, particularly regarding countering Shahed-type kamikaze drones.
