“Ballistic missiles hit when there aren’t enough interceptors”: Western aid is growing, but late delivery kills

Ukraine is receiving more Western military aid today than in the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion, but delays in delivery remain a critical weakness, according to Deputy Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva.

His remarks come as Russia continues systematic strikes on Ukraine’s energy grid using ballistic and cruise missiles. Intercepting ballistic threats requires specific air defense systems and a steady supply of interceptor missiles - both of which depend on coordinated deliveries from partners.

The problem isn't volume - it's timing

In an interview with RBC published on 20 February, Zhovkva said the issue is not the overall scale of assistance, but the timing of its arrival. When promised systems and ammunition are transferred too late, air defense units face shortages that Russia can exploit.

“If it were delivered on time and in sufficient quantities, ballistic missiles probably would not hit our energy infrastructure facilities. They hit when there are not enough missiles to intercept them,” he said.

28 security deals, and some partners are paying more than pledged

Zhovkva argued that the structure of support has improved significantly compared to 2022. Ukraine has signed 28 bilateral security agreements that outline military assistance over ten-year periods, often with fixed financial commitments. In some cases, partners have allocated more than originally pledged.

He cited Germany as an example, noting that Berlin approved a larger defense budget allocation for Ukraine this year than the baseline figure contained in its agreement.

Aid architecture is in place - Ukraine's priorities have shifted

Beyond direct aid, Kyiv is relying on joint weapons production and on the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), a mechanism launched in 2025 to maintain access to US-made weapons. Under this framework, the United States authorizes sales while allied countries finance the purchases.

According to Zhovkva, billions were raised through the program last year, with additional contributions already provided this month by several European states. The mechanism is focused primarily on air defense systems and missiles.

He said Ukraine’s requests have become more specific, reflecting changes on the battlefield. Large numbers of tanks are no longer the priority. Instead, Kyiv is concentrating on air defense and countering drone and missile attacks.