ASPI defence strategy and capability senior analyst Dr Malcolm Davis says Russia’s goal is to attack “critical infrastructure” in the lead-up to winter – particularly power generation.

There are reports this morning that Iran may soon supply Russia with hundreds of short-range ballistic missiles.

“These missiles will be much more capable at penetrating Ukrainian air defences, including those supplied by Western allies,” Dr Davis told Sky News Australia.

“The concern would be that the Iranians are helping the Russians to devastate Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, to weaken Ukraine’s position to resist Russian attacks.”