Zelenskyy cautions that Russia could launch a major assault on Ukraine during the Christmas holidays.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Monday that intelligence reports indicate Russia might conduct "massive strikes" during the Christmas holiday, while negotiations are ongoing with the US to acquire numerous Patriot systems for air defense. "We know that during these days they may – this is typical for them – execute massive strikes on Christmas," Zelenskyy mentioned in a statement following a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff. He instructed the intelligence services to enhance their efforts to provide a clear overview after Russia dismissed proposals from Germany and the US for a ceasefire during the holidays. Zelenskyy highlighted that air defense is the "top priority," especially for safeguarding Ukrainian communities on December 23, 24, and 25, while acknowledging a lack of air defense systems. To tackle this issue, he noted that Ukraine is pursuing a "strong contract" with the US to obtain "several dozen" Patriot systems through various initiatives. He also cautioned that Kyiv will react "in a fully logical way" if Russia does not engage seriously in negotiations aimed at concluding the nearly four-year conflict, following the General Staff meeting. "We thoroughly reviewed the situation at the front across all sectors," Zelenskyy stated. He mentioned that Russian forces have notably intensified their attacks in recent weeks, asserting that this has resulted in increased Russian casualties. "We will keep this momentum – if the Russians do not engage with full seriousness in the negotiation process and instead focus their resources on prolonging and escalating the war, we will respond logically – with our actions in response," he added. Zelenskyy indicated that the meeting also covered updates on "our deep strikes," as well as the needs and supply of the defense forces. He noted that the condition of air defense, including coverage of the front and our regions, particularly the Odesa area, was also part of the discussion.

In the meantime, he mentioned that several candidates for the Air Command South commander position have been put forward and decisions are currently being made. Earlier today, Russian officials reported that a car bomb explosion in southern Moscow resulted in the death of Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, who was the head of operational training at the Russian General Staff. Kyiv has not provided any direct comments regarding the killing.

Zelenskyy warns of potential 'massive' Russian strikes on Christmas and expresses concern over air defense shortages. He stated that there is a possibility of Russia launching "massive strikes on Christmas." "Today, we held a Staff meeting on this matter, and the top priority was air defense: safeguarding our cities, villages, and communities, particularly on the 23rd, 24th, and 25th," Zelenskyy shared on X. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that the military must "ensure protection as much as they can," but he also noted a regrettable "shortage of air defense systems." Zelenskyy has previously shown interest in acquiring Patriot systems from the US, but he mentioned that they are costly and can take a significant amount of time to produce. Meanwhile, Ukraine has relied on European partners like the UK and Germany for air defense systems. Photo credit: Instagram Ukraine President