Zelensky Says Several Ukrainian Air-Defence Systems Ran Out of Missiles Amid Relentless Russian Strikes

Kyiv : Ukraine is facing an acute shortage of air-defence missiles, leaving several systems temporarily without ammunition, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Thursday, highlighting the growing strain on the country’s ability to repel Russia’s sustained aerial assaults.

Speaking at a press conference following talks with Czech President Petr Pavel, Zelensky revealed that as of Thursday morning, a number of Ukrainian air-defence batteries had completely exhausted their missile stocks. He said a new shipment of ammunition has since arrived, easing immediate pressure, but warned that the delivery does not meet Ukraine’s full operational needs.

“Each such package has to be literally fought for with our partners,” Zelensky said, underscoring the diplomatic and logistical battles Kyiv faces in securing military assistance as the war drags on.

Aid Arrives, But Gaps Remain

The newly delivered air-defence missiles are expected to restore partial combat readiness to affected systems. However, Ukrainian officials stress that consumption rates remain extremely high as Russia continues near-daily missile and drone strikes, targeting cities, energy infrastructure and military facilities.

Ukraine depends on a layered air-defence network, combining Soviet-era systems with Western-supplied platforms, to intercept cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and long-range drones. These interceptor missiles are costly, complex to manufacture and cannot be replaced quickly, making steady resupply essential.

Czech Support and Allied Coordination

The Czech Republic has emerged as a key European partner, helping coordinate ammunition and weapons deliveries from multiple countries. Zelensky praised Prague’s role but emphasized that even coordinated initiatives cannot fully offset the scale of Russian attacks.

President Pavel reaffirmed Prague’s commitment to continued support, while acknowledging the limits of production capacity, funding constraints and political approval processes across Europe.

Strategic and Civilian Risks

Military analysts warn that missile shortages force difficult prioritisation decisions, increasing risks to civilian populations, critical infrastructure and front-line operations. Any gap in air-defence coverage could expose major urban centres during periods of intensified Russian strikes.

Zelensky cautioned that without faster and larger deliveries, Ukraine’s air-defence challenge will persist. “This is a constant race,” he said, “between Russian attacks and our ability to defend our skies.”

As the conflict continues, Kyiv is expected to intensify appeals to Western allies for accelerated missile production, expanded funding and long-term commitments to sustain Ukraine’s air-defence shield.