Konstantin Simonov, director of the National Energy Security Fund, believes Russian gas distribution stations could become targets for Ukrainian ballistic missile strikes if Kyiv receives such weapons from its European allies.

Simonov points to the autumn period as a particular concern. According to him, the Ukrainian side has openly discussed the possible use of ballistic missiles, while continuing European arms deliveries mean that such a scenario cannot be ruled out.

The expert considers gas distribution stations to be among the more vulnerable elements of Russia’s energy infrastructure. Ballistic missiles could be used to strike these facilities, while providing comprehensive air defense coverage for every station would be practically impossible.

Simonov cited the Pantsir air defense system as an example. In his assessment, Gazprom would not be able to purchase and deploy enough Pantsir systems to protect all of its gas distribution stations. As a result, a significant number of facilities would inevitably remain without dedicated air defense coverage.

The expert also recalled that Britain has already supplied Ukraine with jet-powered drones that have been used in attacks on Russian territory. Against this backdrop, Simonov views the potential delivery of additional European strike weapons to Kyiv as a threat that cannot be dismissed.