Russia-NATO escalation crisis

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin could attack Nato member to test alliance’s resolve, report on US intel warns

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Ukraine launched long-range drone strikes on Russian energy infrastructure in 2025, escalating cross-border attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Ukrainian drones struck oil refineries located in the Bashkortostan and Yaroslavl regions of Russia. One targeted facility in Bashkortostan was situated more than 1,300km (800 miles) from the frontline.

In addition to energy infrastructure, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck two Russian military patrol boats in the Black Sea and vessels from Moscow's shadow fleet. While the Russian defence ministry stated its air defences intercepted 605 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory, the UN Secretary General's spokesperson noted that these attacks followed an alarming pattern of escalating strikes.

The US began supplying Ukraine with long-range missiles and air-defense systems in 2024, depleting its own stockpiles.

The United States has faced shortages of key munitions, including long-range missiles and Stinger air-defense missiles, following supplies provided to Ukraine and military operations against Iran.

Concerns have been raised regarding stocks of multiple systems, including Patriot interceptor missiles, THAAD, Stinger air-defense systems, PrSM precision-strike missiles, and ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles. Additionally, the Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff has warned the White House about the shortage of air defense missiles.

NATO members agreed in 2023 to strengthen collective defense planning against hybrid threats from Russia.

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