



Bloomberg reported that Russia has cut back on ballistic missile launches since August, substituting cheaper turbojet drones, which Western and Ukrainian analysts read as a sign Moscow is stockpiling its costlier missiles for a concentrated winter assault on Ukraine's energy grid. Patriot interceptors, in short supply, remain Ukraine's main defense against such missiles.
Officials quoted include UN Development Programme's Alexander De Croo, who warned of the toughest winter yet, and Ukraine's prime minister, who said the country is better prepared than last year but cannot protect every facility. Kyiv's own municipal heating and power infrastructure was assessed at only 50% winter readiness in August, with some reporting suggesting the real number is lower.
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