Ukraine's air defence wanes as cities face increased missile threats

Ukrainian cities are becoming increasingly vulnerable to massive Russian missile and drone strikes. The Kyiv army's ammunition for some air defence systems may be depleted by the end of March, reports "The Washington Post".

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This concerning update was shared by Ukrainian officials with European and American counterparts during a security conference last month, according to the American newspaper.

Until now, Ukraine has been able to intercept four out of every five missiles aimed at its cities. Soon, it may only manage to intercept one out of five, one official stated. This could spell disaster for Ukrainian cities. Many had begun to function relatively normally over the past year due to effective missile defences.

Unfortunately, larger supplies of missiles for Ukraine's air defence are expected only after the US Congress approves military aid for Kyiv. Progress has been stalled for weeks by political disputes in Washington. While the Senate has passed the relevant bill, it is still being blocked in the House of Representatives by Republicans.

A sign that Ukrainian air defence may be weakening could be the tragic outcomes of the Russian missile strike on Odessa last Friday. Iskander missiles struck residential buildings, killing 21 people and injuring another 70.

Besides, last week there were reports of the Ukrainians losing a Patriot air defence system.

Source: "The Washington Post"/PAP