The coming winter could become a decisive test for Ukraine, with failure to endure it potentially leading to defeat in the conflict with Russia, Bloomberg reported, citing a senior European official.

According to the agency, the approaching winter months may be the hardest Ukraine has faced since the conflict began. One of the most serious problems is a critical shortage of interceptor missiles for Western air defense systems.

Bloomberg reported that Ukrainians are already preparing contingency plans for what could be an exceptionally difficult winter. Some residents are considering moving elsewhere in the country or leaving abroad, while others are stockpiling firewood and buying equipment and clothing to cope with harsh conditions.

A senior NATO official said the situation had shifted repeatedly over the five years of the conflict. Ukraine’s position was viewed far more positively in the summer of 2026, but the outlook has since worsened again even though the front line has barely moved.

Against this backdrop, European countries are already sending equipment to Ukraine to help it prepare for the winter. The supplies include spare parts for power plants as well as heating equipment.