US restores ballistic missile warnings to Ukraine after a week without advance notice before Russian attacks, Zelenskyy says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on 20 October that the United States has resumed intelligence sharing with Ukraine, including advance warnings of Russian ballistic missile launches. This comes after discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a meeting in Oslo. The lack of advance warnings has been a concern during Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities, with the recent alerts issued for a few minutes before attacks began.

Russian ballistic missiles can reach their targets within minutes, making early notice crucial for protecting lives and preparing defenses. Zelenskyy mentioned that the conversation covered sensitive issues like Starlink satellite communications and missile interceptors, adding that the dialogue was very positive. He plans to speak with Rubio again within the next 48 hours.

Ukraine had been without advance warnings since Russian missile attacks on 12 October, continuing through 19 October. During this period, air raid alerts were issued only after attacks had started, leaving little time for civilians to seek shelter. The US denies allegations of suspending intelligence sharing, but reports suggest Washington threatened to halt intelligence sharing and weapons supplies unless Ukraine halted attacks on Russian oil refineries.

Zelenskyy's latest statement indicates that advance ballistic missile warnings are now being provided to Ukraine, addressing concerns about the reliability of a critical protective capability.