Russia’s New Missile Strategy Puts Seven Ukrainian Regions at Risk

Russia is likely to stockpile ballistic and cruise missiles for repeated, large-scale strikes aimed at overwhelming Ukraine’s air defenses, according to a new report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). The think tank warns that Moscow’s use of North Korean-supplied missiles could soon threaten Kyiv and six other regions. These weapons are expected to be launched in waves, not as single attacks, to exhaust Ukraine’s defensive systems. The ISW assessment suggests that Russia is saving its missile stockpiles for periodic, mass bombardment campaigns. This tactic is designed to break through Ukraine’s air shield by forcing it to fire many interceptor missiles at once. While the report does not specify a timeline, it highlights a growing risk for civilian areas and critical infrastructure. Ukraine’s air defense units will need to prepare for sustained, multi-wave assaults in the coming weeks.