Ukraine admits lack of anti-aircraft ammunition after Russian airstrikes

The US military test-fired a Patriot missile in 2019. Ukraine received several Patriot air defense systems from the West during its war with Russia (Photo: US Army).

Speaking to Ukrainian television on January 9, Mr. Ihnat pointed out that the country had used "a large number of reserve missiles" to defend itself against recent airstrikes.

“There is clearly a shortage of air defense guided missiles,” Mr. Ihnat added.

Ukraine officials say Russia has stepped up its missile and drone attacks on the country in recent weeks, with Moscow’s military launching hundreds of missiles and drones at remote Ukrainian cities.

In the latest attack this week alone, Russia fired 51 missiles of various types, killing at least four people and causing damage to civilian infrastructure, Reuters reported, citing Ukrainian officials. Before the airstrike, Ukraine said it had shot down 18 cruise missiles from Russia.

Explaining the much lower than usual interception rate, Ukrainian officials said that Russia fired a large number of ballistic missiles, which are more difficult to intercept.

Ukraine has relied heavily on military and financial aid from Western allies since Russia launched a "special military operation" in February 2022. Political tensions within the EU and the US have prevented Kiev from receiving large aid packages so far.

Mr. Ihnat hopes that the above-mentioned delay will be overcome soon, because Ukraine is now dependent on Western supplies not only for anti-aircraft ammunition but also in many other aspects.

“We are getting more and more Western equipment. Therefore, it needs to be maintained, repaired, updated, supplemented and receive corresponding ammunition,” Mr. Ihnat said.

Lawmaker Yehor Chernev told Ukrainian television that the government would discuss ways to strengthen air defenses at a meeting with NATO allies this week.

Kiev officials have warned that Russia is stockpiling missiles to intensify attacks during the severe cold months, thereby causing further damage to Ukraine's power grid.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/ukraine-thua-nhan-thieu-dan-phong-khong-sau-mua-khong-kich-cua-nga-20240109192322284.htm