NATO May Begin Shooting Down Russian Missiles Over Ukraine

• 18.10.2026, 13:31

We need to take action before winter sets in.

NATO should urgently consider the possibility of intercepting Russian missiles and drones over Ukraine to protect civilians and critical infrastructure from the Kremlin’s winter attacks. The Alliance could carry out such an operation without direct involvement in ground combat, according to The Telegraph (translation by Charter97.org).

Amid the Russian army’s difficulties on the front lines, Putin is betting on strikes against Ukraine’s energy sector. Moscow hopes to repeat the tactics Russia used in Syria—destroying infrastructure and putting pressure on the civilian population to force Kyiv to agree to peace on Russia’s terms.

The allies have the necessary resources to defend Ukraine.
Specifically, this includes F-35 fighter jets, AMRAAM missiles, and expertise in joint air operations and the interception of aerial targets.

The proposed mission must have a clear mandate and rules of engagement. Its sole purpose will be to protect civilians and infrastructure, not to participate in strikes against Russian forces.

“The cost of inaction is more human lives,” warns The Telegraph. Intercepting missiles and drones will complicate Russian attacks, strengthen deterrence, and help Ukraine conduct potential negotiations from a stronger position.

The publication’s main argument is that action must be taken before winter sets in, when new strikes on the energy grid could have severe consequences for millions of Ukrainians. The experience in Syria shows that delay only increases the number of casualties.