Putin's Winter Strikes May Start Early as Ukraine Advances

Russia appears to be launching its winter attack campaign earlier than usual this year. Ukraine is still building up its defenses against the ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones Russia is using in these strikes. These attacks are growing larger, with more weapons launched at once. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), this shift may be a response to Ukraine's recent gains on the battlefield. The earlier timing suggests Russia is trying to apply pressure before winter fully sets in. Ukraine, meanwhile, is racing to strengthen its air defenses.