Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia has carried out thousands of attacks in the last month targeting Ukraine’s energy system, transport, and other critical infrastructure, as repair work continues across many regions.
Zelenskyy said that in January, Russia launched more than 6,000 attack drones, about 5,500 guided aerial bombs, and 158 missiles of various types against Ukraine. He said almost all of these strikes targeted energy facilities, railways, and infrastructure that supports daily life.
The attacks came amid a deep energy crisis across Ukraine during the winter months. Repeated strikes on power plants, substations, and heating facilities led to rolling blackouts, emergency electricity schedules, and disruptions to heating and water supplies across the country.
Nearly 1,000 drones in past week alone
He said Russian attacks are continuing despite ongoing repair efforts. Over the past week, Russia launched more than 980 attack drones, nearly 1,100 guided aerial bombs, and two missiles against Ukraine.
According to Zelenskyy, Russia is trying to disrupt logistics and transport links between cities and communities. He said these efforts are aimed at weakening internal connections and putting pressure on civilians.
Air defense remains critical need
Zelenskyy said the scale of the attacks shows that Ukraine’s need for air defense remains unchanged. He said missiles for Patriot and NASAMS systems, as well as support for F-16s and other platforms, are needed every day.
Russia has ramped up its use of ballistic missiles in recent months, with Zelenskyy warning that ballistic attacks are increasing while Patriot air defense systems remain Ukraine's only reliable defense against them.
Other air defense systems in Ukraine's arsenal cannot intercept missiles traveling at ballistic speeds, leaving the country dependent on the limited number of Patriot batteries it currently operates.
