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Ukraine fears toughest test since Russia's full-scale invasion
CNBC • • world
Key Points:
- Ukrainian officials and experts warn of a difficult upcoming winter as Russia intensifies missile strikes targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, aiming to disrupt heating and electricity supplies.
- President Zelenskyy has prioritized protecting energy facilities and confirmed Sergii Koretskyi, former Naftogaz CEO, as prime minister to help navigate the winter crisis and ensure operational resilience.
- Ukraine faces a critical shortage of air defense systems, relying heavily on American Patriot PAC-3 interceptors, while domestic companies like Fire Point rush to develop antimissile technology under tight time constraints.
- Despite ongoing Western support, including a substantial EU financial aid package, Ukraine continues to seek additional funding and military assistance, emphasizing that survival depends on sustained international backing.
- Former U.S. Ambassador Kurt Volker predicts Putin will persist in winter attacks but is increasingly constrained by battlefield losses and economic pressures, with hopes for a ceasefire by spring 2024.
