This recent focus is intended not only to destroy civilian infrastructure but also to exhaust Ukrainian air defenses. According to the WSJ, by the beginning of summer the situation with Ukraine’s air defense may become critical.
At the same time, Russia’s actions against Ukraine now have a different character – new tactics and greater consequences. The key difference is that Russia now aims not at distribution but at generation. These shots are more precise and concentrated.
Moreover, large-scale missile and drone strikes on Ukraine’s energy system are taking place against the background of a reduction in the supply of military equipment and ammunition from Western partners. Financial support has been relied upon significantly.
Ukraine’s decreasing reserves force the military to only defend certain locations and cities. According to President Zelenskyy’s calculations, Ukraine needs at least 25 Patriot air defense systems to repel the enemy’s attacks.