A Missing Ingredient in Ukraine’s Barrages on Russia: Ballistic Missiles

Live updates

1. 1h ago

   Ukraine Lacks Ballistic Missiles for Russian Strikes

   Ukrainian drone operations have seen breakthroughs, but officials claim ballistic missiles are necessary to change Russian war goals. Russia continues to employ mixed missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian targets.

   What's confirmed:

   • Russia launched two Kinzhal air-launched ballistic missiles and two Iskander-M/S-400 ballistic missiles on June 21.
   • Russia used 105 drones during the June 21 attack.
   • Ukrainian air defense forces shot down most targets during the June 21 strike.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Only ballistic missiles can force Russia to reconsider its war objectives.
   • Ukraine faces a critical shortage of American Patriot interceptors.
   confidence 90%
2. 2d ago

   Ukraine Lacks Ballistic Missiles for Strategic Strikes Amid Air Defense Shortages

   Ukrainian drone attacks have made breakthroughs, but experts and officials state only ballistic missiles can force Russia to reconsider its war objectives. Meanwhile, Ukraine faces a critical shortage of American Patriot interceptors. Russia continues combined attacks using missiles and drones to target infrastructure and civilians.

   What's confirmed:

   • Russia has launched thousands of missiles and drones since February 2022.
   • Ukrainian air defenses shot down most targets from a June 18 attack involving seven ballistic missiles and 239 drones.
   • Ukraine is running out of American-made Patriot air-defense interceptors.
   • The U.S. Congress has questioned the Pentagon's ability to supply more Patriot interceptors to Ukraine.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Ukrainian deep strikes may be depleting Russian air defense missiles at an unsustainable rate.
   • Russia's intense strikes may be signs of industrial depletion and political theater.
   • Russia can contest territory but cannot hold it since December.
   confidence 80%