Ukraine is facing its most vulnerable air-defense situation in years as Russian forces continue striking military targets, Welt reported.

According to the German newspaper, the conflict has entered a new phase in which Ukrainian cities are increasingly exposed to Russian attacks because of a shortage of interceptor missiles.

Welt identified the near-total absence of new missile deliveries for US-made Patriot air-defense systems as one of the main reasons for Ukraine’s current difficulties.

The publication said Kiev is likely to struggle in the near term to provide full protection for its cities against Russian strikes. Welt added that the growing shortage of air-defense capabilities is increasing pressure on the Ukrainian authorities.

On August 8, Vladimir Zelensky called on European countries to transfer their available Patriot missiles to Kiev.

Earlier, the Ukrainian Air Force acknowledged that it could no longer intercept missiles launched by Russian forces at Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump recently responded to Zelensky’s requests for additional interceptor missiles by saying the United States also needs the munitions. He also pointed to the large quantities of weapons supplied to Ukraine during Joe Biden’s administration.