Zelensky Warns Ukraine Air Defence Supplies Are Insufficient Amid Russian Strikes

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky says the country’s air defence supplies remain insufficient after days of intense Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. The warning comes as freezing winter temperatures worsen power shortages across major cities, including Kyiv.

Kyiv, Ukraine – January 16, 2026

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a stark warning on Friday, saying Ukraine air defence supplies are insufficient after several systems were left without missiles until earlier in the day. His remarks followed one of the most intense waves of Russian strikes targeting the country’s energy infrastructure since winter began.

Speaking publicly, Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine had received a substantial delivery of air defence missiles on Friday morning. However, he stressed that the timing underscored a deeper vulnerability.

“I can say this openly because today I have those missiles,” Zelensky said. “But supplies are insufficient.”

The comments came as Russian forces launched repeated missile and drone attacks across Ukraine, damaging power plants, substations, and heating facilities. The bombardment has left large parts of the country struggling with electricity and heating during sub-zero temperatures.

Zelensky warned that even with new shipments arriving, Ukraine remains exposed.

“Receiving deliveries does not mean winter ends tomorrow,” he said. “And it does not mean the enemy will stop bombing us.”

Where It Happened

The impact of the strikes has been felt nationwide, but the situation remains especially severe in Kyiv, where city officials declared a state of emergency in the energy sector earlier this week.

Temperatures in the capital have plunged as low as minus 19 degrees Celsius, compounding the strain on damaged infrastructure. Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that most of Kyiv has experienced widespread heating outages and electricity shortages for the first time since the war began.

Electricity availability in the city has dropped to less than half of required levels, forcing authorities to shut schools until February and expand emergency warming centers.

Russian strikes also continued outside the capital. In the central city of Nikopol, officials reported that at least two people were killed in overnight attacks, highlighting the ongoing human cost of the conflict.

Official Confirmation

Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine relies heavily on its Western partners for critical air defence systems, which require a constant and reliable supply of missiles to remain operational.

“Ukraine air defence supplies must arrive rapidly,” he said, calling on allies to accelerate deliveries of available stockpiles.

The president also criticized countries holding unused reserves.

“If we are at war, we really need it,” Zelensky said. “In some countries, there is no war, yet ammunition is being stockpiled.”

On Friday evening, Zelensky revealed that Ukrainian intelligence believes Russia is preparing for further large-scale missile strikes in the coming days. He emphasized that Kyiv is working urgently to close supply gaps before new attacks occur.

Ukraine’s new energy minister, former prime minister Denys Shmyhal, addressed parliament on Friday, accusing Moscow of deliberately exploiting the extreme winter weather to maximize pressure on civilians.

“Russia is betting it can break us through energy terror,” Shmyhal said, ordering state energy companies to increase imports and accelerate emergency repairs.

Why It Matters

The warning over Ukraine air defence supplies highlights a critical moment in the war, as Russia shifts focus toward infrastructure attacks designed to weaken civilian morale rather than battlefield positions.

Air defence systems remain Ukraine’s primary shield against missile and drone strikes. When those systems lack ammunition, entire cities become vulnerable within hours.

The timing is particularly dangerous. Winter conditions amplify the consequences of energy outages, turning power cuts into life-threatening situations. Hospitals, schools, and emergency services depend on stable electricity, while millions of civilians face freezing temperatures without heating.

The issue also carries geopolitical significance. NATO allies have rallied behind Ukraine, but Zelensky’s remarks underscore growing concern that delivery timelines and stockpile limitations could undermine defensive capabilities during critical periods.

European nations including France, Germany, the UK, and Nordic countries have increased cooperation on Arctic and Eastern European security. However, Ukraine’s situation illustrates how logistical delays can translate directly into battlefield risk.

What Happens Next

Ukraine is pushing on several fronts simultaneously.

First, officials are racing to restore damaged infrastructure. Thousands of energy workers are repairing power plants and substations under constant threat of renewed strikes.

Second, Kyiv is intensifying diplomatic efforts. Zelensky confirmed that Ukrainian negotiators are traveling to the United States for further talks on a potential ceasefire framework.

He said Ukraine hopes to sign proposals with Washington during next week’s World Economic Forum in Davos, pending final approval from the American side.

Meanwhile, curfews in Kyiv have been partially eased to allow residents access to emergency heating and electricity hubs. City officials have also encouraged those who can safely leave the capital to do so, easing pressure on limited resources.

Despite these measures, Ukrainian leaders remain cautious. Zelensky stressed that missile deliveries alone will not end Russia’s campaign.

“We are trying to speed things up,” he said. “It is important that our partners hear us.”

Conclusion

Zelensky’s warning that Ukraine air defence supplies are insufficient offers a sobering snapshot of a war entering another dangerous phase. As Russia intensifies attacks on civilian infrastructure during extreme winter conditions, Ukraine’s survival increasingly depends on the speed and scale of Western support.

While fresh missile shipments provide short-term relief, officials acknowledge that sustained protection requires consistent deliveries and long-term coordination with allies. With intelligence pointing to further Russian strikes and energy shortages deepening, the coming weeks will test Ukraine’s resilience  and the resolve of its international partners  more than ever.

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