Ukraine downs 5 Russian ballistic missiles as Kyiv looks to boost its air defenses

Ukraine downs 5 Russian ballistic missiles as Kyiv looks to boost its air defenses highlights Ukraine’s claim of intercepting five Russian ballistic missiles during overnight attacks. The Ukrainian air force said Tuesday it stopped those ballistic missiles, marking the first time in almost two weeks that Ukraine reported downing Russian ballistic missiles, which are typically harder to counter than drones or cruise missiles. Despite the interceptions, other missiles and drones reached targets in Kyiv, causing fires at two warehouses and damaging a school, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko. The report notes that Ukraine likely used the U.S.-made Patriot system, though Patriot ammunition has been scarce amid broader constraints. The timing matters as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its air-defense network before winter, while Ukraine is also working with nine other nations to form a coalition for a shared ballistic missile shield for Europe.