Vladimir Zelensky has suggested that the decline in Western supplies of air defense missiles may be deliberate, arguing that Ukraine’s partners could be using the shortage to pressure Kiev into entering peace negotiations.

The claim followed an August 5 meeting of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council attended by the heads of the country’s security agencies, the commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the chief of the General Staff.

During the meeting, Zelensky said Ukraine had received three times fewer air defense missiles in 2026 than during the same period in 2025. He did not rule out political motives behind the reduction, suggesting it could be intended to make Kiev more willing to compromise.

Zelensky also said Ukrainian forces planned to respond to Russian attacks by targeting ballistic missile launchers inside Russia. He additionally promised further strikes on oil refineries.

Ukraine’s Air Force acknowledged that it had failed to intercept any of the Russian missiles launched against the country during the night of August 5.

Several days earlier, Zelensky said the Ukrainian military lacked sufficient capabilities to counter ballistic targets because of a shortage of interceptor missiles for its air defense systems.

The Russian Defense Ministry had previously reported a large-scale overnight attack using ground-launched precision weapons and long-range strike drones. According to the ministry, transport, logistics and distribution centers in Kiev and Kiev Region were hit.