Lauge Risom Koch 
An Austrian military expert warns that Russia plans to intensify attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure during the upcoming winter.
The Russian military intends to use the upcoming winter as a strategic weapon against Ukraine. Austrian military expert Markus Reisner believes this seasonal shift will define the next phase of the conflict. He asserts that Moscow plans to intensify attacks on the national energy sector.
The strategy aims to severely weaken Ukrainian society through sustained infrastructure damage. Officials report that recent strikes have already compromised a significant portion of the power grid. The national energy minister recently confirmed that 80% of the critical infrastructure is damaged or destroyed.
The frontline currently remains frozen without major territorial shifts. The operational focus has therefore transitioned toward aerial bombardment and hybrid warfare tactics. Diplomatic mediation efforts have failed to produce any compromises or de-escalation agreements.
Exploiting air defense vulnerabilities
The Russian military is specifically targeting known weaknesses in the domestic defense network. According to Money.pl, Ukraine suffers from a severe lack of interceptor missiles. This ammunition shortage prevents defenders from consistently neutralizing incoming threats.
Recent strike data highlights this growing defensive vulnerability. As reported by Money.pl, Ukrainian forces only intercepted half of the 60 missiles launched during a recent nighttime attack. Reisner noted that Patriot air defense systems remain crucial instruments for protecting these domestic skies.
European production rates fail to meet current battlefield demands. According to Money.pl, the Austrian expert criticized Europe for its sluggishness in manufacturing modern air defense systems. He categorized this industrial delay as an “absolute failure” for the continent.
Expanding drone operations and sabotage
The Russian armed forces are actively increasing their unmanned aerial capabilities. According to Money.pl, the military has installed new drone attack bases across occupied territories. These launch sites operate near the borders to maximize strike efficiency.
This aerial warfare is expected to intensify over the coming months. As highlighted by Money.pl, Reisner stated, “Putin is deeply convinced that this winter he will finally bring Ukraine to its knees.” The drone deployments serve as a core component of this broader seasonal strategy.
The Kremlin is also preparing to expand hybrid warfare tactics beyond the immediate conflict zone. According to Money.pl, Russia attempts to stir anxiety among Western societies through acts of sabotage. These psychological operations aim to increase pressure on Western governments to reduce their support.
