The Economist has drawn attention to an intensification of Russian strikes on targets in Kyiv, warning that the consequences for the Ukrainian capital could prove more severe than previously expected. According to the British publication, Russia may seek to paralyze the city even before winter begins.

Until recently, Ukrainian and Western experts had largely identified energy and heating infrastructure as Kyiv’s most vulnerable point. Strikes on these facilities were expected to create serious difficulties for the city during the coming winter.

The Economist now suggests that a critical situation could develop much earlier. Sources cited by the magazine believe the most intensive phase of the strikes could come in November.

According to the publication, two senior Ukrainian officials said intelligence indicated that Russia had launched a three-pronged campaign involving bombardment, sabotage and efforts to create political chaos in the capital.

The range of targets has also expanded. Alongside energy infrastructure, strikes are now being carried out against data centers and warehouses belonging to retail chains.

The magazine also highlighted the use of new jet-powered drones and ballistic missiles by the Russian Armed Forces. The article states that Russia is capable of deploying these weapons regularly and in large numbers, while Ukrainian air defenses face serious difficulties attempting to intercept them.