Russia Seeks to Expand Ballistic Missile Output as 27 Missiles Overwhelmed Kyiv Defenses
Updated
Updated · Kyiv Independent · Aug 2
Russia Seeks to Expand Ballistic Missile Output as 27 Missiles Overwhelmed Kyiv Defenses
1 articles · Updated · Kyiv Independent · Aug 2
Summary
Zelensky said Russia is accelerating ballistic missile production while many companies supplying parts for its drones, missiles and guided bombs still face no Western sanctions.
Over the past week, Russia launched nearly 1,900 drones, almost 1,600 guided aerial bombs and 144 missiles, which Zelensky cited as evidence that Moscow is investing more heavily in strike capacity.
Kyiv's latest overnight barrage on Aug. 1 killed nine people and injured more than 30; Ukraine shot down only one of 27 ballistic missiles because it lacked interceptors.
Ballistic attacks have repeatedly hit the capital through spring and summer 2026, exploiting Ukraine's depleted Patriot stocks—the only proven defense against Russia's Zircon and Iskander missiles.
Zelensky urged broader sanctions across Russia's defense industry, arguing tighter pressure on component makers is needed to curb future attacks.