Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly took advantage of a temporary disruption in American support for Ukraine to intensify missile and drone attacks against the war-torn country, according to a new analysis by The Telegraph.
The report reveals that Russian attacks increased by 58% during a period when Ukraine experienced disruptions to US intelligence-sharing and access to SpaceX's satellite communication services.
According to data from the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) analysed by The Telegraph, Russia launched approximately 4,003 strikes against Ukraine between October 12 and October 24, compared with 2,527 attacks recorded during the preceding 12 days.
The increase came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that his country had experienced missile attacks without receiving the usual advance warnings from its international allies.
On October 14, Ukraine also confirmed restrictions affecting its access to Starlink and Starshield satellite communication services, which have played an important role in military operations and air defence.
The temporary disruption reportedly affected Ukraine's ability to coordinate drone operations and intercept incoming Russian attacks, particularly faster-moving drones.
Russia Increased Use of Faster Attack Drones
The Telegraph analysis also revealed a significant increase in Russia's deployment of Shahed-136 drones and more advanced jet-powered models during the period.
Russia reportedly launched 3,219 Shahed-136 drones in the 12 days following October 12, compared with approximately 1,939 during the preceding 12 days, representing a 66% increase.
The use of Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered drones also increased considerably, with Russian forces launching 382 of the models compared with 103 in the previous 12-day period.
These drones can travel at significantly higher speeds than conventional attack drones, making them more difficult for Ukrainian interceptor systems to pursue and destroy.
The disruption to satellite connectivity reportedly affected some Ukrainian interceptor drones, which experienced difficulties maintaining connections when travelling at higher speeds.
US Restores Intelligence Sharing and Satellite Services
The developments raised concerns about Washington's relationship with Kyiv, particularly after President Donald Trump's administration came under scrutiny over its approach to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The United States later resumed intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, with Zelensky expressing gratitude for the restoration of information that helps the country identify incoming Russian missile attacks.
On October 24, Ukraine also announced that Starlink and its military version, Starshield, had returned to normal operating speeds following more than a week of restrictions.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk subsequently accused the Ukrainian military of violating the terms of service by using Starlink for offensive drone operations, although Ukraine disputed his characterisation of its use of the service.
Meanwhile, the latest developments have renewed discussions about Ukraine's dependence on American technology and military intelligence.
Security experts have warned that although European allies can increase their assistance, replacing certain American capabilities, particularly satellite-based early-warning intelligence and advanced missile defence systems, could take considerable time.
The latest Russian attacks have therefore highlighted the importance of international military cooperation as Ukraine continues to defend its territory against Moscow's invasion.