Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Defense Committee Yuri Shvytkin stated that if reports of U.S. assistance in Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy facilities are confirmed, Russia must strengthen its air defense system.

He emphasized that such claims should not be underestimated, suggesting that they may have a basis in fact — possibly involving U.S. intelligence support or even American personnel operating missile systems used in the attacks.

Shvytkin recalled that during a recent press conference, the Russian president had also stressed the importance of reinforcing the country’s air defense, particularly in light of the potential transfer of U. S. Tomahawk missiles to Kiev.

According to the lawmaker, Russia must enhance its air defense capabilities to intercept all types of aerial targets involved in strikes against the nation’s energy infrastructure. He added that it is equally important to tighten security around strategic facilities to prevent further attacks.