Key facts
- Kyiv faces a shortage of air defense missiles to counter Russian attacks.
- At least four gas stations in Kyiv have been targeted by Russian strikes in the past week.
- Protecting gas stations from Russian attacks is a complicated issue due to air defense limitations.
- Kyiv authorities have stockpiled fuel for winter and potential emergencies.
- Russia has previously targeted Ukraine's energy grid ahead of winter.
Kyiv is preparing for potential fuel shortages and power outages as Russia escalates its attacks on the Ukrainian capital, targeting critical infrastructure including gas stations, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Klitschko stated on September 11 that the city lacks sufficient air defense capabilities, specifically missiles, to effectively intercept Russian drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. He described the protection of gas stations as a "complicated issue" due to these limitations. The recent attacks, which have included at least four strikes on gas stations in the past week, mark an expansion of Russia's campaign beyond frontline areas and are disrupting fuel distribution. Klitschko also confirmed that authorities have stockpiled fuel to ensure generators can run during possible power outages, anticipating that Russia may again attempt to cripple Ukraine's energy grid ahead of winter. "We are working through various plans," Klitschko said, emphasizing the need to be prepared for "different scenarios, including a bad one."