In a press conference in Kiev today, President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that many Western-allied air defense systems had run out of ammunition. This occurred as Russia intensified its attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.

"As of this morning, some systems no longer had missiles. I can now say this publicly because we have received more ammunition," he stated, without specifying the systems.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Warsaw, Poland, in 12/2025. Photo: AFP

President Zelensky added that Ukraine's energy system currently meets only 60% of the country's electricity demand as winter approaches. He emphasized that more than 15,000 energy workers are racing to restore damaged power plants and substations.

The Ukrainian leader announced that negotiators are traveling to the United States to continue discussions on a proposed Washington plan to end the conflict. Kiev seeks clear commitments from allies regarding security guarantees within the peace plan.

Western nations have provided Ukraine with many advanced air defense systems, including the powerful Patriot, SAMP/T, IRIS-T, and NASAMS. However, limited weapon deliveries often overwhelm Ukraine's air defense network. Russian strikes have also destroyed many of these systems, creating serious gaps in Ukraine's defensive capabilities.

Colonel Yuri Ignat, press secretary for the Ukrainian Air Force Command, admitted last year that air defense forces consistently face challenges. Russia continues to upgrade its Geran series unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Iskander ballistic missiles, while also improving its attack tactics.